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Power and Electrical Line Safety

The Steigerwaldt Land Services team works with utility companies in many facets. With safety being a priority to both Steigerwaldt and our clients, and in lieu of the recent snow and ice storms, we felt this would be a good time to pass on some safety information to help keep everyone safe.

Downed Power Lines

Downed or low hanging power lines and damaged electrical equipment have the ability to cause serious harm or even death. Always assume the electrical lines and equipment have energy, even if they don’t appear to. The recommendation is to stay at least 30 feet away from downed lines and at least 10 feet away from overhead lines. Do not touch anything or anyone in contact with them. Touching a live line of anything near it, such as a fence, puddle, car, etc., can cause electrocution. Instead, clear the area immediately and contact an emergency number.

Call Before Digging

Many electric lines are buried underground and could be run through your yard. With spring weather and yard work on everyone’s minds, remember to make a free call to have your utility lines marked prior to digging. This will help protect yourself from injury or expense. Just call 811 to have these lines marked by a professional. Once marked, avoid digging near them. The line may be closer to the surface than you think.

 

For more safety tips please visit these resources:

ESFi: Power Lines Safety Tips

811: Before You Dig

 

-Haakon Hagemeister, Vice President: Energy, Infrastructure, and Real Estate