05 August 2002 00:00 Keeping the farming community safe!

In the Summer the farming community is gearing up for its busiest time of the year so East Midlands Electricity (EME) is alerting farmers to take extra care using combine harvesters or other farm machinery near overhead lines

Overhead power lines in rural areas are the main source of power to villages, farms, schools and the like, so it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers they pose.

Dave Welbourne, Safety Engineer at EME, said: “Farmers should plan work around poles and structures carrying electricity very carefully. To the untrained eye, it could be difficult in some circumstances to tell the difference between a telecom line and an electricity line.

“Look out for the Danger signs. The signs say Danger of Death and that’s exactly what it means - you’re in Danger of being killed or terribly burned or disabled.

“And it’s not only a question of putting yourself at risk, you could also put children playing in nearby fields and even your own livestock in jeopardy.

“If you accidentally damage overhead or underground cables and you’ve not been hurt, don’t be tempted to return to the vehicle as the power system may automatically come back on after a set time.

“When spraying or carrying irrigation pipes always be aware that power cables could come into close contact with them. They don’t even have to touch, electricity can jump if they’re close enough.”

In an emergency call East Midlands Electricity on 0800 626 555. Do not pick up or touch power cables that have been damaged they could be still be live.

EME urges farmers to remember a number of important points:

Take care when using equipment that can be extended to reach heights above four metres;

Make sure that equipment is well away from overhead lines if raising booms or tipping trailers and that these are fully lowered before moving;

Brief contractors, or those not familiar with the route of the lines, as awareness of hazards helps to prevent accidents.

ENDS


For further information and pictures contact:

Janet Morrow on 024 7642 5741