National Farm Safety Week

   The National Safety Council has set aside the week of September 16-21as National Farm Safety and Health Week to commemorate the hard work of our farmers.

 Farmers and rural people were behind the movement to launch the first electric cooperatives. Although technology has dramatically changed the industry, our farmers still face dangers every day.

 At Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative, safety is of vital importance. We stress this everyday with employees. We provide classroom presentations in schools to teach children about electric safety. And we strive to assist our farming community to be safe at all times. One safety risk on the farm comes from overhead power lines and farm equipment coming in contact.

 To stay safe while working on the farm, follow these safety suggestions:

• Make sure power tools are properly grounded with ground-fault circuit interrupters.
• Always use ladders with caution so that they do not come in contact with overhead power lines.
• Many electrocutions occur near grain bins, and the requirements in the National Electrical Safety Code address those dangers. The code requires raised power lines in dangerous locations where tall equipment is used.
• If you have overhead power lines, ask SVEC to help determine line height in each area of the farm. Try to maintain at least a 10-foot clearance between the power line and the top of all equipment that must travel under it.
• For more information about electrical safety, call your local SVEC office or visit our website at www.svalleyec.com.

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