Harvest season is one of the busiest times of the year for farmers – and among the most dangerous.

Before taking to the fields, we urge farmers and their employees to be aware of potential electrical hazards and take safe steps to avoid tragedy.

Take note of the following life-saving tips from www.safeelectricity.org to keep your harvest season productive and safe:

• Always use a spotter when operating large machinery near lines.

• Use care when raising augers or the bed of grain trucks around power lines.

• Keep equipment at least 10 feet from lines — at all times, in all directions.

• Inspect the height of the farm equipment to determine clearance.

• Always lower extensions to the lowest setting when moving loads.

• Never attempt to move a power line out of the way or raise it for clearance.

• If a power line is sagging or low, call us right away.

If contact is made between farming equipment and overhead lines, it’s almost always best to stay in the cab. Warn others to stay away and call 9-1-1 to alert the utility and emergency services. Do not get off the equipment unless there is a fire or imminent risk of fire.

In that rare case where making an exit is a life and death decision, the proper action would be to jump – not step – free and clear from the equipment landing with feet together. Do not touch the equipment and ground at the same time. And hop as far away as possible, as electricity radiates outward. 

Accidents related to power and electricity are always possible but, in most cases, can be prevented. Here are some additional steps to decrease the chances of an electrical-related incident during harvest, and all throughout the year: 

• Install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to help prevent electric shock in areas that are exposed to weather and may potentially become wet. GFCIs should also be on outlets where electric tools are used.

• Examine all wiring and machinery regularly. Ensure that everything is grounded and working properly. 

• Always check the weather forecast and never operate machinery when there is a risk for lightning. Make sure you’re accounting for adverse weather conditions and dedicating extra space for safety.

Although harvest season is a time filled with tight deadlines and heightened work stress, take the time to consider electrical safety – it could save your live or the lives of others!