BERWYN, PA - Berwyn Fire Company volunteers and career staff have been busy since 5:50 a.m. yesterday responding to 33 fire/EMS calls. The high winds have caused numerous trees to come down, along with power lines in the T-E community.

The photos below are from a response today where a van made contact with a power line near the intersection of Lizbeth Ln. and Laurel Ln. in Tredyffrin Township at 2:05 p.m. today. Fortunately the driver made it out safely.

A few safety tips and reminders:

• Always assume power lines are live. This applies to power lines on utility poles as well as those entering your home or buildings. Even momentary contact can injure or kill.
• Always stop and find an alternative route when you see caution tape, flares or barricades blocking a roadway. These are here in place for your safety.
• Always keep yourself, your equipment and anything you carry at least 10 feet from power lines. Even though you may notice a covering on a line, NEVER assume it is safe to touch. Stay Away, Stay Alive!
• If at any time you smell natural gas, see downed power lines on fire or arching, or suspect an unsafe electric or natural gas condition; please leave the area immediately and then call 9-1-1 and PECO at 1-800-841-4141. DO NOT CALL 9-1-1 to tell them your power is out. This is not an emergency.

Thank you to the Tredyffrin Township Police Department, Easttown Township Police Department and Paoli Fire Company for their assistance today.