This week is National Agriculture Week, and Idaho Power is reminding customers to think about electrical safety when working in the field. Keep the following tips in mind — not only will they help you stay safe, but they may also prevent costly, time-consuming damage.

• Safely practice prescribed burning of ditch banks or pastures by staying far from power poles and electrical equipment.
• If planning any digging, call 811 at least two days in advance to ensure the area is clear of underground utility lines.
• Be aware of overhead lines when moving tall equipment or clearing debris from irrigation pipes. Use a spotter, and move equipment horizontally.
• Never stack items, like hay bales, under power lines. All power lines should be considered energized and dangerous.
• Adjust your irrigation systems to avoid spraying overhead lines.
• Operate equipment a safe distance from power lines — at least 10 feet for lower voltages.

If you’re unsure of a line’s voltage, or for any other safety assistance around power lines, call Idaho Power at 208-388-2323 or 1-800-488-6151 outside the Treasure Valley.

Maria Willacy
Communications Specialist
mwillacy@idahopower.com
208-388-5978