Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to remind equipment and drone operators to keep powerline safety a key focus when working around power lines.
When large equipment comes too close to a power line, electricity can arc to the equipment, leading to serious or potentially fatal injuries to the operator. “Being safe out in the field starts with checking your surroundings and becoming aware of power lines in your area,” said NPPD VP of Energy Delivery Scott Walz. “We take safety very seriously, and we want to encourage everyone working around power lines to be aware of their surroundings, so they can complete their work safely as well.”
If a piece of equipment comes in contact with a power line, call 911 or your local power provider, and remain inside the vehicle until help has arrived, to de-energize the line. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, jump away from the vehicle, never touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land on two feet and shuffle as far away from the area as possible.
