You know it's close to seeding season when SaskPower comes out with an annual reminder for farmers to watch for power lines.
Incidents of coming into contact with power lines involve large equipment such as seeders, augers or cultivators, said Nidal Dabghi, SaskPower Safety Director.
"“This can lead not only to costly equipment damage and power outages, but also to injury or even death.” said Dabghi.
SaskPower notes in 2025, there were 315 such incidents recorded – all of them preventable according to the provincial utility. Common causes of these include fatigue, underestimating the size of equipment, being unaware of the location of a line, and digging too close to lines.
SaskPower reminds producers to plan their route ahead of time, lower equipment where needed, and use a spotter.
In the event equipment comes in contact with a line, producers are advised to call SaskPower at 310-2220 or 911 in case of an emergency.
If the vehicle is on fire, SaskPower recommends the following procedure to exit safely:
- Make sure no wires are in your way.
- Stand in doorway, cross arms, put feet together.
- Jump as far as possible, land with feet together.
- Do not touch the vehicle.
- Keep arms crossed, feet together, and hop at least 10 metres to safety.
More information about prevention and electrical safety can be found at www.saskpower.com/ComeHomeSafeTonight.
