**IMPORTANT INFO** Reap What You Sow and Be Safe This Planting Season!
Long hours and fatigue are a constant battle for farmers during planting season.
“Farmers often neglect their own needs because they have their ‘get-it-done’ thoughts in their heads,” says Scott Haber, Cuming County Public Power District Operations Manager. “As tempting as it is to burn the midnight oil, farmers should get as much rest as possible and allow themselves breaks to clear their head,” advises Haber.
Be especially aware of electrical hazards around the farm. Be cautious and think twice before acting around electricity. CCPPD and Safe Electricity offer farmers the following reminders:
• If your machinery or vehicle comes in contact with a power line, do not get out. Once contact has been made with a live line (even when your tractor or truck makes contact), you are now a “pathway to ground” and you could get electrocuted if you step out. Instead, stay where you are and call 9-1-1 to dispatch the appropriate utility to de-energize the power.
• When using machinery with long extensions or tall antennas and when using ladders, look up to avoid contact with overhead power lines. Machinery is much larger these days and can easily come in contact with overhead power lines. Be Aware to Stay Alive!
• Remember, non-metallic materials (such as tree limbs, ropes and hay) can conduct electricity, depending on dampness and dust/dirt accumulation.
• Visually inspect overhead lines, which may not meet height codes due to age or pole damage. If a wire is hanging low or is on the ground, consider it energized and stay away; call 9-1-1 to have the operator dispatch the utility.
• Every day, map out where equipment will be moved to ensure it will clear power lines.
• When working in the vicinity of power lines, always use a spotter who has a broad vantage point.
• Train anyone working with or for you (including seasonal employees) to be aware of power line locations and teach them proper clearance distance. Contact CCPPD and we can do a demonstration on power line safety.
