As seeding gets underway in Saskatchewan, SaskPower is encouraging farmers to make safety a priority when operating around power lines.

SaskPower observes an increase in line contacts involving farm equipment during both the seeding and harvest seasons. Last year, SaskPower reported 268 farm related power line incidents.

We understand that spring seeding is a very busy time across Saskatchewan, and we urge farmers to work safely so they can come home safe tonight,” said Nidal Dabghi, Director of Safety at SaskPower. “Safety should be everyone’s top priority, and we want producers to take the necessary steps to work safely this spring.

SaskPower recommends farmers avoid fatigue by taking routine breaks, using a spotter when moving large equipment near power lines, planning a route ahead of time using the Look Up and Live interactive map and collapsing/retracting equipment whenever possible.

In the event of a line contact, SaskPower reminds equipment operators to remain in their vehicle and to call 911 immediately. Should a fire be ignited from the line contact, operators should follow the safe exit procedure and under no circumstances return to their vehicle or implement:

• Swing the vehicle door wide open, being sure to not touch the outside of the vehicle.
• Make sure no wires are in your way.
• Stand in the doorway of the vehicle, cross your arms in front of your chest and put your feet together.
• Jump as far from the vehicle as possible, making sure you don’t touch the outside of the vehicle. Land with your feet together.
• With your arms still crossed and feet together, hop away from the vehicle (at least 10 metres).
• Call 911 immediately.

For more information on safely working near power lines, visit saskpower.com/lookupandlive.

At a glance...

• SaskPower urges farmers to make safety a priority while seeding
• Farm-related line contacts increase in the spring and fall
• SaskPower reported 268 farm-related line contacts last year
• Learn more at saskpower.com/lookupandlive