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PAGE 2 | SEPTEMBER 2015 Look up for hazards during harvest A


fter working in a fi eld on a neighbor’s farm, Jim Flach parked his equipment and stepped out of the vehicle. Sadly, Jim did not realize his equipment was touching


an overhead power line, and he became a path for the electrical current as he placed his foot onto the ground. Jim received a severe electric shock that ultimately resulted in his death a few months later. Safe Electricity urges farmers to take the proper precautions when working around power lines.


“T e rush to harvest can lead to farmers working long days with little sleep,” cautions Kyla Kruse, communications director of the Energy Education Council and its Safe Electricity program. “It is important to take time for safety. Before starting work, make sure to note the location of overhead power lines.”


To stay safe around overhead power lines, Safe Electricity urges farm operators and workers to:


n Use a spotter when operating large machinery near power lines.


n Use care when raising augers or the bed of grain trucks around power lines.


n Keep equipment at least 10 feet from power lines — at all times, in all directions.


n Inspect the height of farm equipment to determine clearance. n Always remember to lower extensions when moving loads. n Never attempt to move a power line out of the way or raise it for clearance.


n If a power line is sagging or low, call TCEC.


If contact is made with a power line, stay on the equipment. Make sure to warn others to stay away, and call 911. Do not leave until the utility crew says it is safe to do so. T e only reason to exit is if the equipment is on fi re. If this is the case, jump off the equipment with your feet together, without touching the ground and vehicle at the same time. T en, still keeping your feet together, hop to safety as you leave the area.


“You need to double check, even triple check, to see what is above you,” says Marilyn Flach, Jim’s widow. His son Brett adds, “Be conscious of your surroundings. You need to keep your eyes open and beware of overhead lines.” n


Energy Effi ciency Tip of the Month


Looking for an easy effi ciency upgrade? Additional insulation can make a diff erence! Reduce heating and cooling needs up to 30 percent by properly insulating and


weatherizing your home. Source: Energy.gov


Electrical Safety Tip of the Month


Examine extension cords before each use. Replace cracked or damaged cords immediately. Extension cords are for temporary use only, and are not intended to be used as a permanent power supply.


Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International


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