Here are some helpful safety tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure farm equipment like planter arms and sprayers safely clear overhead power lines. This tall equipment can easily become entangled in power lines and pose an electrocution risk. Keep a minimum of a 10-foot distance from power lines in all directions. Consider asking your electric cooperative to move overhead lines around buildings or frequently used pathways. It’s also a good idea to re-check any field access points for proper clearance before entering in case something has changed since the last time you were in a field.
   

• Keep a safe distance from power poles and guy wires when working the land or planting crops. Contact 911 immediately if your equipment comes into contact with a guy wire or power pole. Do not try to fix it yourself.
   

• If your farm equipment comes in contact with power lines, call 911 immediately. Keep others away and remain calm. DO NOT try to exit the equipment or touch someone who has had electrical contact. If you must exit the equipment for life-threatening reasons such as fire, jump out and away from the equipment and make sure to land with your feet together and touching. Then, shuffle at least three tractor lengths away with your feet touching. NEVER attempt to get back into or touch equipment that is in contact with a power line.
   

• Make sure full-time and seasonal farmworkers are educated to stay safe on the farm. Each worker should be aware of the dangers and use proper safety procedures.

Stay safe around electricity this planting season. Thank you for your hard work!