24 September 2003 00:00 FARM SAFELY THIS SUMMER !

In the Summer the farming community is gearing up for its busiest time of year so East Midlands Electricity (EME) is sending out a special message to all farmers.

Accident statistics show harvest time to be one of the most dangerous periods in the farming calendar but incidents can easily be prevented with a little care.

Jerry Carnell, Safety Adviser at East Midlands Electricity, said: “Please farm safely this Summer.

“We want farmers to be aware of the dangers of working near overhead power lines. If they hit one then not only could they suffer potentially serious injuries they could also knock out power to villages, farms, schools and the like.

“It really is essential that we’re all aware of the dangers involved when working near overhead lines.”

EME urges farmers to keep in mind some key points:

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

• Make sure that your equipment is well away from overhead lines when raising booms or tipping trailers – you don’t have to physically touch a line to cause a discharge of electricity;

• Ensure everyone knows where any overhead lines are located – Awareness prevents accidents.

If you need advice on the height or safe clearances from overhead lines call East Midlands Electricity on 0800 096 3080

In the case of emergency call EME on 0800 626 555. Do not be tempted to go near the line. Do not pick up or touch power cables or anything that is in contact with them as they may still be live or automatically come back on after a set time.