Sioux Valley reminds farmers to watch for electrical equipment this harvest season

As harvest season ramps up, Sioux Valley Energy is reminding producers to take the time to be safe while working near overhead and underground electrical hazards. Ag producers and their employees are urged to watch for hazards as they enter and exit their fields. 

Sioux Valley Energy Manager of Safety Terry Ebright says farmers need to take the time, every time, to check clearances and keep their distance from electric equipment like overhead lines and green boxes.

Each fall, a number of accidents involving farm equipment and power lines occur. At times, these accidents cause power outages or significant damage. But, these incidents can also cause serious bodily injury or death.

Tips include remembering how long an auger reaches behind you to make sure it is clearing powerlines and trees. Make sure buckets are down and in a safe position. If contact is made with a power line, stay in the cab. And if digging is part of an operation’s fall plans, call 811 before you dig to locate underground utilities.