Electrical Safety Month
Our farming community, members, construction crews, and DIY enthusiasts are all extremely valuable to our Nobles Cooperative Electric family, and we want to share a few reminders for your spring projects. Whether you're working in your farm fields or your own backyard, please remember these safety tips:
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
- When working overhead, look up first.
- Before digging, look down.
- Always call Gopher State One Call (811) before you dig.
- Be mindful of your equipment's swing in the field to maintain a safe distance from power lines.
When operating in the right-of-way (ROW), always be aware of your surroundings and the height of your farming equipment. Unlike household wiring, overhead power lines do not have electrical insulation, posing a significant risk of electrocution upon contact.
Agricultural equipment, including augers, tillage equipment, combines, forklifts, and antennas on trucks, tractors, and excavators, are large enough (311500) to reach overhead lines. There are also underground power lines buried in some ditches, so please ensure you stay out of the ROW when tilling.
Everyday reminders have the potential to save a life!
Electrical safety is critical; a simple mistake can be fatal. Touching a downed power line or using an appliance near water can lead to catastrophic consequences. Electrical Safety Month raises awareness and encourages precautions.
Summer storms can be frightening, and power surges can damage appliances, cause fires, and more. Unplug non-essential equipment during storms. Throughout the year, follow these basic safety rules:
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Never touch a downed power line or anything in contact with it.
- Stay 50 feet away from downed power lines or electrical equipment during a storm.
- Do not drive over or under downed/low-hanging power lines.
- Spot a downed power line? If it's within Nobles Cooperative Electric’s territory, give us a call. For lines outside our area or any immediate safety risk, dial 911 without delay.
If the equipment you are operating contacts a power line, do NOT get off the machinery. Call 911 immediately. If you have no other option and must exit the equipment, jump with your feet together and jump as far away as possible from the equipment, without touching it.
