There have been 240 incidents of farm equipment hitting power infrastructure since April. (Submitted Photo/SaskPower)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Harvest Safety

SaskPower asks farmers to think safety during harvest season

Aug 28, 2019 | 12:31 PM

The harvest season is getting underway, which means there will soon be lots of farm machinery moving around.

With this in mind, SaskPower wants farmers to remember to be careful when working around power lines and other electrical equipment. SaskPower spokesperson Joel Cherry said people making contact with power equipment is an issue.

“We are continuing to see farm equipment coming into contact with power lines and power poles at a pretty high rate,” he said.

According to SaskPower since April 240 incidents of farm machinery hitting electrical equipment have been reported. Over time the number of reported incidents has trended up, which Cherry attributes in part to farming equipment getting larger.

Cherry added beside damage to power infrastructure and farm equipment there are other serious possible consequences.

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“You could be injured and occasionally people do die when this happens,” he said.

Specifically Cherry said there are issues with people hitting power lines and power poles with equipment. He added it is an issue across the province. Along with possible injuries, Cherry said these incidents can also cause power outages.

“The power infrastructures dependent on not being contacted this way,” he said.

If anyone is in a vehicle that makes contact with power lines, Cherry said the best course of action is usually to stay inside and call for help.

“The only situation in which you should leave the vehicle is if it’s caught fire,” he said.

If a person does have to leave there vehicle SaskPower recommends they make sure no wires are in their way, cross their arms and put their feet together before jumping away from the vehicle. It is then advised that you hop at least 10 metres while being careful not to touch the vehicle.

When it comes to prevention, SaskPower recommends farmers make sure to plan their work and take precautions like lowering equipment or having a spotter when working near lines. It is also recommended that farmers make sure to take care of themselves by getting plenty of rest and making sure to stay hydrated.

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn