As a distribution electric cooperative, we believe safety is more than just a priority — it’s a responsibility that extends beyond our day-to-day jobs.
One of the most effective ways that we fulfill that responsibility is by hosting LIVE POWER LINE SAFETY DEMONSTRATIONS for various groups throughout the year, including first responders, students, community groups, and co-op members.
These hands-on events play a crucial role in promoting awareness, preventing accidents, and building trust within the communities we serve. That’s why we’ve increased the number of safety demonstrations led by our line crews in recent years from less than a dozen in 2017 to over 60 last year!
FROM AWARENESS TO ACTION
Unlike pamphlets or presentations, we use real equipment and talk about real-life scenarios during our trailer and tabletop safety demonstrations to highlight the invisible dangers of electricity.
Our participants see firsthand how electricity arcs, how improper contact can cause serious injuries, and why keeping a safe distance is so vital. That kind of impact can’t be replicated with words alone. When people witness the raw power and potential hazards of energized lines, our safety messages stick.
PROTECTING THOSE WHO PROTECT US
First responders are often the first on the scene of accidents involving power lines — crashes, downed lines, or structure fires. That’s why we tailor some of our demonstrations for firefighters, police officers, and EMTs, offering them practical, lifesaving knowledge, including how to identify energized equipment, maintain
safe perimeters, and communicate effectively while waiting for our line crews to arrive on scene during all kinds of emergencies.
TEACHING TOMORROW’S SAFETY LEADERS
Schools and youth organizations are prime audiences for power line safety education. Teaching kids of all ages how to recognize electrical hazards, stay clear of electrical equipment, and to respond in emergencies like car accidents involving downed power lines instills safe habits early. These lessons can ripple outward too — kids often take what they’ve learned home, reinforcing safety messages for the whole family.
STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY TIES
Beyond safety, these demonstrations are a powerful way for our line crews to connect with the members we serve. They highlight our commitment to our communities. Our role isn’t just about keeping the lights on — it’s also about keeping people safe. We’re hopeful that visibility and engagement go a long way in building trust and reinforcing the cooperative difference with members like you.
SPARKING SAFETY EVERYWHERE
Live power line safety demonstrations are more than just educational events — they’re investments in public safety and in our communities. By making electricity’s dangers visible and understandable firsthand, we hope to reduce accidents and save lives in the communities we power.
