As seeding gets underway in Saskatchewan, SaskPower is
encouraging farmers to make safety a priority when operating
around power lines.
SaskPower observes an increase in line contacts involving farm
equipment during both the seeding and harvest seasons. Last
year, SaskPower reported 268 farm related power line
incidents.
“We understand that spring seeding is a very busy time across
Saskatchewan, and we urge farmers to work safely so they
can come home safe tonight,” said Nidal Dabghi, Director of
Safety at SaskPower. “Safety should be everyone’s top priority,
and we want producers to take the necessary steps to work safely this spring.”
SaskPower recommends farmers avoid fatigue by taking routine breaks, using a spotter when
moving large equipment near power lines, planning a route ahead of time using the Look Up and
Live interactive map and collapsing/retracting equipment whenever possible.
In the event of a line contact, SaskPower reminds equipment operators to remain in their vehicle
and to call 911 immediately. Should a fire be ignited from the line contact, operators should follow
the safe exit procedure and under no circumstances return to their vehicle or implement:
- Swing the vehicle door wide open, being sure to not touch the outside of the vehicle.
- Make sure no wires are in your way.
- Stand in the doorway of the vehicle, cross your arms in front of your chest and put your feet
together. - Jump as far from the vehicle as possible, making sure you don’t touch the outside of the
vehicle. Land with your feet together. - With your arms still crossed and feet together, hop away from the vehicle (at least 10
metres). - Call 911 immediately.
For more information on safely working near power lines, visit saskpower.com/lookupandlive.
(SaskPower news release)
