You've got a lot on the line, so know the facts about working safely around electricity on your farm.
Never approach equipment that has come in contact with a power line.
When electricity flows into the ground, it can electrocute anyone who comes too close. Stay at least 10 metres away from fallen wires. Call us at 310-2220 (toll-free number available 24 hours a day). If someone has been injured, call 911.
If your equipment contacts a power line, do not step off the equipment.
Stay where you are. Call 911 or call us at 310-2220. If there is a fire or medical emergency and you must exit the car or equipment, follow these steps:
- Open the car door all the way while seated. Look up and around to ensure you can exit the car without contacting the fallen line.
- Stand on the frame of the car with your arms close to your body or crossed over your chest. Slide your feet together.
- Jump out of the car with your feet together and your arms touching your body. Never make contact with the car and the ground at the same time.
- Hop or shuffle quickly away, keeping your feet together.
- Move at least 10 metres away from the scene. Slowly slide your feet apart. If you feel tingling, put your feet back together and hop further away until you no longer feel the tingling sensation.
- Once you are a safe distance away, call 911.
This is a very dangerous manoeuvre that should only be used as a last resort. To watch how this manoeuvre is safely done, view our Auto Accidents and Electrical Safety video.
Never try to raise, lift or move a power line yourself.
Overhead power lines have no protective insulation. Any contact can be fatal. Report fallen lines immediately by calling us at 310-2220.
You can be electrocuted in a rubber-tired vehicle.
Some tires will actually conduct electricity, explode or burn if electrified. Carbon-based rubber and steel belts make some tires very good conductors.
There are underground power lines in Saskatchewan.
When planting trees, digging post holes, drilling a well or doing any excavation work, always call before you dig. We'll locate and mark any SaskPower-owned underground power lines at no cost to you.
Wood conducts electricity.
Any amount of moisture or dirt can make wood a very good conductor. Do not clear storm-damaged trees, limbs or other debris that are touching power lines. Never trim trees near power lines. Call us at 1-888-757-6937 to report the situation or submit your tree trimming request online.
