News > CEO’s Message – May 2022

CEO’s Message – May 2022

Take 60 Seconds for Safety

I think it’s fair to say that we to hope hit the pillow safely at the end of each day. And yet, we often find ourselves rushing through a project, speeding to our next commitment or cutting corners ‘just a little bit,’ with full intention of ‘taking the time to do it right tomorrow.’ But these are the times when safety matters most!

It takes less than a second to cause a life-altering or life-ending safety error, especially when there is high voltage electrical equipment involved. You can’t hear, see or smell electricity, which makes it even more dangerous.

May is Electrical Safety Month and I encourage you to be diligent and take 60 seconds for safety. Lower tall equipment before moving it. Identify any overhead power lines near you. Slow down and keep your eyes on the road. Taking 60 seconds for safety could save your life.

FARMING SAFETY

It’s been a long winter and farmers are anxious for the weather to cooperate so they can get their crops planted. I hope by the time you read this article, spring is in full throttle! Here are four tips to be safe on the farm:

1. When moving farming equipment, make sure your equipment can safely clear any power lines.
2. If you are on equipment that comes into contact with power lines, DON’T GET OFF unless it starts on fire (very rare). Call 911 and wait for help to arrive.
3. Don’t spray water on power lines with your irrigation system. Jets of water can conduct electricity and energize nearby equipment.
4. Don’t stack items too high below power lines. Items stacked too high can cause contact with overhead power lines or equipment could contact the power lines when moving staked items.

SAFETY TIPS FOR ADULTS

Summer is just around the corner, which means trips to the cabin, family gatherings and yard work! Stay safe around electrical equipment with these tips:

1. Always call before you dig, even if you are just planting a bush.
2. Report trees that have grown into power lines to your electric utility provider.
3. Look up and look around for power lines before doing any work on your roof.
4. Don’t drive distracted. If your vehicle is in an accident with electrical equipment, STAY INSIDE unless it starts on fire (very rare). Call 911 and wait for help to arrive.

SAFETY TIPS FOR KIDS

Swimming, climbing trees, riding bikes, staying up late – summer is the best when you are a kid! Help keep your children safe by teaching them these safety tips:

1. Stay away from electrical equipment marked with danger signs and warnings.
2. Never climb trees near power lines.
3. Never fly kites near power lines.
4. Keep electrical equipment away from water and don’t touch any electrical equipment when you are wet.

I hope you take 60 seconds for safety. Be safe!

Sincerely,

Robin C. Doege
CEO