Three Lake Conroe Area Residents Electrocuted

Investigation continues into Tuesday evening incident that severely injured two adults and one juvenile.

Three people were hospitalized Tuesday evening after they were found near a downed power line in the Lake Conroe Campgrounds off FM 830.  Initial reports indicate that a 59 year male resident came into contact with a downed power line and was electrocuted.  The male also suffered severe burns and was found by neighbors lying on the ground still in contact with the downed line.  A 56 year old female and a 6 year old child were also severely injured during the incident.  

Fire and EMS crews from the North Montgomery County Fire Department and MCHD EMS responded to the scene and worked to stabilize the victims before they were transported to area trauma centers. Deputies with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office responded and the MCFMO is leading the investigation into the incident.

Yesterday’s storms left widespread damage and power outages throughout southeast Texas and residents are urged to stay at least 35 feet away from downed lines. You do not have to touch a power line to be in danger. High-voltage electricity can jump to anyone who gets too close.

Downed Power Line Safety Tips

• If you see a downed power line, move away from it and anything touching it. The ground around power lines – up to 35 feet away – may be energized.
  
• You cannot tell whether or not a power line is energized just by looking at it. You should assume that all downed power lines are live.
  
• The proper way to move away from the power line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times. This will minimize the potential for a strong electric shock.
  
• If you see someone who is in direct or indirect contact with the downed line, do not touch the person. You could become the next victim. Call 911 for help.
  
• Do not attempt to move a downed power line or anything else in contact with it by using an object such as a broom or stick. Even non-conductive materials like wood or cloth, can conduct electricity if even slightly wet.