Power line safety on the farm

Safety tips that are always in season!

  1. Know what’s below. CALL 811 before starting any digging project.
  2. Always USE A SPOTTER to warn you of any dangers when moving equipment.
  3. If you strike a guy wire, NEVER REPAIR IT YOURSELF. Call your local utility right away.
  4. WATER CONDUCTS ELECTRICITY, so be careful when irrigating near power lines.
  5. Keep yourself and machinery AT LEAST 10 FEET AWAY from overhead power lines.
  6. Be extra careful when operating sprayers, planters and cultivators. KNOW THE HEIGHT AND WIDTH OF YOUR FARM EQUIPMENT to prevent accidental contact.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU CONTACT A POWER LINE:
If a power line falls across or near your machinery while you are in it, stay inside and CALL 911. Tell bystanders to stay away. If you must exit, jump as far as possible, so no part of your body is touching the machinery when you land. KEEP BOTH FEET TOGETHER and shuffle or hop at least 40 feet away.