Community & Environment

Outdoor Safety

Outdoor Safety Checklist

• I never trim or remove trees near over head lines.
  
• I avoid planting new trees where they might grow into an overhead line.  I realize that a tree trimmer, metal ladder or other object can extend my reach dangerously close to overhead lines.
• I never use electrical tools if my hands or feet are wet or if I’m standing on damp ground.
• I look up and check clearance from overhead lines in all directions before installing an antenna for TV or radio, or before using a metal ladder.
• I teach my children never to climb trees near overhead lines.
• I always fly kites and model airplanes away from overhead lines.
• I use only non-metal string or cord to fly kites and model airplanes and I never use metal to construct a kite.
• If a kite or model airplane gets caught in an overhead line, I never attempt to retrieve it. I call my utility to remove it.
• If I see a broken or fallen overhead line, I assume it’s “live” and call my utility as soon as possible.
• If an overhead line falls on my car, as a result of an accident, I know I’m safe as long as I stay inside the car.
• If I must exit the car, I jump, being careful not to touch the car and ground at the same time.
• When making plans to erect new buildings, like grain bins, I locate them a safe distance from overhead lines.
• I always bring tall farm equipment to its lowest level before moving it.
• I know that utility poles, fences around electric substations, and transformers on the ground are “off limits” to everyone.