Submitted
With swathing and combining dominating the thoughts of Saskatchewan farmers at this time of year, SaskPower asks farmers to remember the overhead power lines crossing fields and farm yards.
While Saskatchewan’s farmers know their land like the backs of their hands, farmers need to always stay mindful of the power lines on their property, according to SaskPower President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Watson.
“It’s important to remember that this is a risk that never goes away,” Watson said. “It only takes a moment to forget, and when people are working hard and under pressure, it’s easy for accidents to happen.”
To make sure the farming season is safe and productive, SaskPower urges farmers to keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Plan a safe route around overhead lines and power poles, and make sure everyone working with you is aware of the route and the location of potential dangers.
- Use a safety spotter to help watch for power lines when moving equipment.
- Lower equipment before moving it and watch out for power lines when constructing grain bins and carrying tall equipment like ladders.
- If your vehicle contacts a power line, stay inside of the vehicle and call SaskPower at 310-2220. Call 9-1-1 for help if someone is injured. Remember to carry a communication device on you at all times when out in the field.
For more information about electrical safety on the farm, visit saskpower.com/safety/farm and view the animated farm safety video titled “You’ve Got a Lot on the Line.”
