A Safe Planting Season

Sunshine and springtime are in our future, and that means farmers are preparing to get back in the fields. It’s no secret that farmers work year-round to feed and clothe the world, but that doesn’t mean that they are exempt from electrical safety hazards. Here are some tips to share with the farmer in your life before they head out for planting season. 

Have a Plan. Start each morning on the farm with a plan of the day’s work. Know what jobs will happen around power lines and have a plan to keep yourself and everyone else on the farm safe – that includes those running planters or spraying fertilizer. Not only could a hazard halt your operation, but it could also impact your community’s electricity and broadband access. 

Stay Away from Lines. Always keep yourself and equipment at least 10 feet away from power lines in all directions. Have someone spot for you when moving bigger and taller equipment to make sure no lines are contacted. Always lower equipment to its lowest level before moving or transporting them. Wind, uneven ground or other factors outside of your control can cause equipment to contact power lines. 

Call Your Co-op. Use qualified electricians for work on any farm electrical systems. Do not attempt to raise or move a power line to allow equipment or yourself to cross a path. Call your co-op for assistance. If you come into contact with a line, call 911 or your co-op immediately and, if possible, stay in your vehicle until help arrives. 

[CO-OP NAME] wishes all our farmers a safe and happy planting season. We thank you for all that you do for our community, and if we can ever help in anyway, please let us know.