Edit: As expected, some people don't like my answer. I have decades of electrical and electronic experience and I suspect those who don't like my advice do not have a solid education/experience in basic electrical theory and practice. However, I assure you that the wires are not as dangerous as popular ignorance imagines.
Climb up and have a close look at the wires you will be near. If the utility is on the ball, they will be completely wrapped in insulation with no exposed metal—except for the neutral—and the connections (between the utility wires and the leads to the meter socket) wrapped in electrical tape.
If the wires are old, possibly there is some cracked insulation, maybe even seriously cracked enough for some bits of conductor to be exposed. If cracking is serious or there is substantial cracking, call the utility and have them upgrade or wrap the wires. They should do this for free.
If the wires are in good repair, you can safely work alongside them, even while touching them. Respect them and keep all forms of metal away from them: no metal hammer parts, paint roller, crowbars, putty knives, wedding rings, wristwatch, etc. Use your fear of them to keep their position firmly in mind at all times.
If after working close to them and you still can't see yourself getting any closer, then by all means, call the utility and have them de-energized. This may require a permit and inspection, so it may be days before power can be reconnected. (I know permits and inspections don't make any sense, but the administrating authority is "just ensuring safety"—and making a living.)
If you were to fall off the ladder and the wires provided an opportunity to grab to save yourself, I would risk doing so. Probably the arresting force will bend the weather head, and might pull apart the electrical connection. After safely landing, keep the bare ends away from everything, and wrap them with electrical tape once you are steady on your feet.