Hunter
08/31/20
Cedar Rapids officials are urging the public to continue to be aware of power lines while they work to remove debris after a man was electrocuted Saturday afternoon.
According to a release from the city, firefighters and police were dispatched to the 800 block of 17th Street Southeast just after 4:45pm on reports of a possible electrocution. First responders found a 22-year-old male on the platform of a portable lift who had apparently been trimming trees when he made contact with an overhead power line.
The man was still conscious and instructed to stay put until Alliant Energy could arrive on scene and de-energize the affected power lines. After power was disconnected, firefighters were able to move him off the platform.
The victim was transported to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and his condition is unknown at this time. Officials say the power line that he came in contact with was a 7200 volt electrical line.
Public Safety Communications Coordinator Greg Buelow reminds everyone to watch out for power lines, especially when using portable lifts or ladders that could accidentally come in contact with live power lines.