Look up. Look down. Look around.
Safety is the foundation of everything we do at Burke-Divide Electric Cooperative. Because electricity is such a powerful resource, it is important to remain constantly aware of your surroundings when working near power lines and electrical equipment.
Take time to regularly survey your property for overhead power lines, utility poles, pad-mounted transformers, and underground equipment. Make sure your family members and employees know where these facilities are located. Plan equipment routes carefully to avoid overhead lines, and review these routes each year, as equipment sizes and ground conditions can change.
When moving large equipment, never work alone. Always have a spotter present to watch clearances and help ensure you maintain a safe distance from power lines.
If a power line ever falls on or near your equipment while you are inside, stay in place and call 911 immediately. Warn others to stay away. If you must exit due to fire or another emergency, jump clear without touching the equipment and ground at the same time. Land with both feet together and shuffle or hop at least 40 feet away to avoid the risk of electrical shock.
Remember that electrical lines may also be buried underground. Before starting any digging project, always call North Dakota One Call by dialing 811. Utility companies will mark their underground facilities to help prevent accidental contact. If you have private underground lines, contact a qualified professional to locate them.
Damage to electrical equipment can create serious hazards, cause outages for you and your neighbors, and result in costly repairs that affect the entire membership.
Once again, please stay alert and aware of power lines and other electrical equipment. Look up. Look down. Look around. And if you see something that doesn’t look safe, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Safety is a shared responsibility.
Until next time,
Jerry King
General Manager