BY SCOTT MEINECKE
As the weather warms up, we’re spending more time outdoors and tackling projects around the house that require power tools and other equipment. Before you head outside, please take a moment to review these safety tips.
Don’t dig yourself into trouble
April is National Safe Digging Month for a reason! Many of us will be working on landscaping and home improvement projects this spring that involve some digging. Remember to contact Iowa One Call at least two business days before you dig to any depth so underground utilities can be properly located and marked. It’s the law, and it could save your life or prevent serious damage. Call or click before you dig – call 811 or visit www.IowaOneCall.com to process your request.
Avoid ladder pitfalls
Planning to use a ladder this spring? Always choose a non-conductive ladder made of wood or fiberglass for utmost safety. Pick a safe route to carry the ladder to the work area and then carry it horizontally rather than upright. Be aware of electrical lines and tree branches in the area where you are working. When using an extension ladder, tie off the top of the ladder whenever possible. Use the 1:4 lean ratio to ensure a stable working platform.
Plant seeds of safety
As you head into the fields to plant, always keep a 10-foot clearance between your equipment and power lines. Take time to study where all overhead power lines, poles and guy wires are located on your property and inform anyone working with you about them. Plan your route between fields and on public roads so you avoid low-hanging power lines; never attempt to raise or move a power line to clear a path. When moving large equipment or high loads near a power line, always use a spotter to help make certain that contact is not made with a line.
If equipment makes contact with a power line, assume the line is energized and deadly. The operator should NOT get off the machinery unless in immediate danger. If the operator touches the ground and the equipment at the same time, they will become a channel for electricity. Instead, the operator should stay on the equipment, keep others away and contact the local electric utility or 911 immediately to report the incident so power lines can be deenergized safely before exiting.
Take shelter from the storm
Storm season has returned, and there is no safe place from lightning when you’re outside. Be aware of weather forecasts and watch for developing thunderstorms as lightning can strike many miles ahead of a storm front. If you hear thunder, seek shelter immediately because it indicates lightning is within 10 miles of you. Safe shelters include inside a building or in an enclosed metal-topped vehicle. Authorities warn against outdoor activity until 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder is heard.
Scott Meinecke is the director of safety and loss control for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives.
