A reminder from SaskPower now that spring seeding is getting underway – Look Up and Live. 

The reminder comes as farmers are getting back into the field with their equipment, and as the Crown power company sees an increase in line contacts involving farm equipment in the spring and fall. Last year, there were 248 line contacts reported.  

“Seeding is a very busy time for Saskatchewan farmers, and we are encouraging anyone operating heavy machinery near power lines to do so with safety top of mind,” said Nidal Dabghi, SaskPower Director of Safety. “While no one starts their day expecting to hit a power line, it’s important to take steps to avoid a dangerous line contact.” 

To help prevent a line contact, SaskPower is recommending farmers take routine breaks to help avoid fatigue. As well, use a spotter on the ground when moving equipment, lower or collapse equipment when moving from field to field, and plan their route ahead of time to be prepared for potential hazards.  

If there is line contact, SaskPower urges farmers to remain in their vehicles and to call the SaskPower outage centre if it is safe to do so. The equipment operator should attempt to back up slowly to free the vehicle, but stop immediately if the line isn’t coming free of the equipment, or if it looks like the pole or the line could break if moving further.  

If leaving the vehicle is necessary due to a fire or other emergency, they advise swinging the door wide open, making sure not to touch the outside. Ensure there are no wires in the way, and standing in the doorway, cross your arms in front of your chest and with your feet together. Then, jump as far from the vehicle as possible, making sure to not touch the outside of the vehicle and landing with your feet together. Then, with arms still crossed and feet together, hop away from the vehicle and then call 911.