What should you do after hitting power lines?

After hitting power lines, the safest course of action is to stay in the forklift if it is safe to do so. This is because the forklift acts as an insulating barrier from the ground, reducing the risk of electric shock. When a power line is down, it can create highly dangerous conditions, including the risk of electrocution if the driver steps out and comes into contact with the ground.

Staying inside the forklift is advisable until professional help arrives or until you are absolutely certain that it is safe to exit. It's also important to notify others about the incident without putting yourself in danger. Additionally, the operator should remain calm and avoid any sudden movements to maintain safety in an unstable situation.

Leaving the forklift immediately, attempting to move it, or ignoring the incident can lead to severe accidents and injuries, potentially increasing the risk to the operator and bystanders.