This hunting season, we encourage all members to be aware of electrical equipment and take necessary precautions while hunting. Even though your sights may be set on deer or wild game, please keep in mind these safety tips as you enjoy the great outdoors.
- Take notice of posted warning signs and keep clear of all electrical equipment. This includes poles, padmount transformers (the big green boxes on a lot of properties), and even substations. Most substations are surrounded by fences and include a lot of heavy-duty electrical equipment. It is very important to stay away from these areas.
- Know where power lines and equipment are located on the land where you are hunting. Take special precautions in heavily wooded areas where power lines may not be completely visible from the ground.
- Do not place deer stands, decoys or any hunting equipment on utility poles or transformers. Energized lines and equipment can conduct electricity to anyone who comes in contact with them, causing shock or electrocution. This can also pose as an obstruction and cause serious hazards to our line crews. Staples and nails can penetrate the rubber gloves that keep linemen safe from electrical shock.
- Never shoot at nearby power lines or other electrical equipment and never attempt to shoot through the wires or at anything that may be on the wires or poles.
- If you come across a tree branch or anything that is leaning on a powerline, do not touch it and contact 911 and NREMC immediately.
- Be prepared. Always carry emergency supplies with you. Include something to use to signal for help in case of an emergency and have your cell phone handy.