As farmers make plans to return to their fields for spring planting, Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative  encourages everyone to be particularly alert to the dangers of working near overhead power lines. Operating large equipment near these lines is one of the most often overlooked, yet potentially deadly, hazards of working on a farm.

There are steps farmers can take to help keep themselves and workers safe when working around electricity.

Here are some safety tips to follow during the planting season:

– Keep all objects at least 10 feet away from overhead lines. Know where all overhead power lines are located on your property and inform all workers about them.

– Be aware of increased height when loading and transporting larger modern tractors. Many tractors are now equipped with radios and communications systems that have very tall antennas extending from the cab that are more likely to make contact with power lines.

– Plan your route between fields and on public roads so that you avoid low-hanging power lines. Never attempt to raise or move a power line to clear a path.

– When moving large equipment or high loads near a power line, always use a spotter, or someone to help make certain that contact is not made with a power line.

– Be sure everyone else in your operation knows what to do in an emergency.

– Use qualified electricians when installing and repairing farm electrical systems. Consider installing waterproof and dust proof electrical boxes and outlets at the farm.

Overhead electric wires are not the only source of electrical contact that can result in a serious incident. Pole guy wires, used to stabilize utility poles, are grounded. However, when one of the guy wires is broken it can cause an electric current disruption. This can make those neutral wires anything but harmless.

If you hit a guy wire and break it, call EIEC to fix it. Do not do it yourself. When dealing with electrical poles and wires, always call us at 1-800-824-5102.