Southern Public Power District

PO Box 1687 / 4550 West Husker Hwy
Grand Island, NE 68802-1687
308-384-2350 / 800-579-3019

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Farm Safety, Plant Safely!

Farmers, there is no question about it, 2019 has been a challenging year already. Wet conditions have lingered with ongoing snow and rain and the planting season has been continuously delayed.

You are likely feeling rushed, and that is understandable. But where electric safety is concerned, it is well worth your time to take a few moments to assess your surroundings, every time you enter your field. LOOK UP, LOOK OUT, and LIVE.

Please take a few moments to review the safety tips listed here, and share them with anyone who is working in your fields. To ingrain these tips in your mind, just keep the words “Look Up, Look Out, and LIVE” at the top of your mind. Have a safe and prosperous farming season!

  • Keep cultivators, sprayers and planters AT LEAST 10 FEET from power lines and electrical facilities.
  • Use a spotter when maneuvering large equipment.
  • Inspect entrances into fields to ensure adequate clearance for equipment.
  • Use a spotter from a good vantage point to verify that entry points offer sufficient clearance.
  • Never attempt to move a power line out of the way or raise it for clearance.
  • If you’re equipment contacts a power line, remain inside the vehicle until linemen from SPPD arrive to de-energize the line. Stepping out of the equipment creates a path from the equipment to the ground, and electricity will use YOU as a path.

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Flooding Provides Its Own Set of Electrical Hazards

With heavy rain, and snow, and frozen ground creating hazards throughout Nebraska, there are many hazards to consider pertaining to electricity. The following are some safety measures to keep in mind:

  • Never step into a flooded basement or other room if water may be in contact with electrical outlets, appliances or cords. The water could be energized, and could shock or electrocute you.
  • Never attempt to turn off power at the breaker box if you must stand in water to do so. If you can’t reach your breaker box safely, call your electric utility to shut off power at the meter.
  • Never use electric appliances or touch electric wires, switches or fuses when you’re wet or when you’re standing in water.
  • Keep electric tools and equipment at least 10 feet away from wet surfaces. Do not use electric yard tools if it’s raining or the ground is wet.
  • If an electrical appliance has been in contact with water, have a professional check it out before it is used. It may need to be repaired or replaced.

SOURCE: SafeElectricity.org.

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