Power Line Safety

Red Lake Electric Cooperative reminds members to always be thinking of safety regarding electricity.

A 230-kV power line with the Northern Lights in the background
electricity, a powerful energy...
Electricity is a wonderful form of energy and has enhanced our lifestyles, health and well-being. However, electricity can also be very dangerous, causing serious injury or death. We all must exercise extreme caution when working on or around electric power lines.

Power line safety tips

Electricity and water are a dangerous combination.

Never place plugged-in appliances where they might fall in contact with water. If a plugged-in appliance falls into the water, NEVER reach in to pull it out, even if it is turned off. Shut off the breaker supplying the power FIRST, then unplug the appliance. If you have an appliance that has gotten wet, don’t use it until it has been checked out by a qualified service person.

If you see a downed power line, keep everyone away from it.

Then call Red Lake Electric Cooperative or law enforcement to report it. Just because a power line is lying on the ground, it is not always de-energized.

Familiarize yourself with the location of power lines in your yard.

Make sure you, your family and hired help know the location of overhead and underground power lines. Also make sure they understand the importance of staying clear of overhead power lines. When moving equipment around the yard, have a “spotter” watching to make sure you are clear of power lines.

Keep a safe distance from overhead power lines.

Whether you are playing outdoors with your children or working on landscaping projects, keep a safe distance from power lines and other equipment Red Lake Electric uses to get electricity to your home. Keep kites, ladders, grain augers, conveyors and all other tall equipment or machinery away from overhead power lines.