Outdoor Electrical Safety
At Lassen Municipal Utility District, the safety of our employees and the public is our Number 1 priority.
LMUD employees log hundreds of hours of safety training— everything from workplace safety training to emergency pole-top rescue. In addition to our employee safety training, LMUD staff members bring the high voltage safety demonstration to schools, organizations, and groups throughout our service territory.
It’s easy to take electricity for granted. It makes our lives convenient, comfortable, and efficient. However, electricity can become deadly if used improperly or carelessly.
As spring progresses and summer approaches, the chances of an electrical accident increase. An estimated 150 accidental electrocutions are attributed to consumer products and nearly 300 people are electrocuted during outdoor activities each year, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International.
Please be aware of overhead and underground lines as you perform your spring cleaning, planting or construction projects. Looking around electrical equipment and calling 811 can avoid disaster. An everyday activity—such as cleaning rain gutters, tree trimming, or digging a trench—can pose an electrical hazard if safety concerns are not heeded.
Ranchers and farmers must be diligent. Moving irrigation pipes can result in tragedy. If a pipe contacts an overhead power line, the person holding the pipe can be electrocuted.
Another common safety hazard occurs when agricultural burning gets out of hand. Utility poles are often located in the same area that is being burned. Poles that are dry and full of creosote are easily ignited. The flames and smoke can cause lines to arc resulting in power outages or permanent damage. Keep in mind, if you cause damage to LMUD property you may be held liable for the cost of repairs. Make sure you have sufficient safety precautions in place before you begin this type of project.
LMUD employees are preparing our lines and rights-of-way for summer safety. Crews clear vegetation around power lines. Tree trimmers eliminate the danger of limbs coming in contact with lines, and line crews visually inspect lines and utility poles for damage.
You can help us keep our facilities hazard-free by reporting damaged lines or poles. Call our 24/7 customer service line at (530) 257-4174.
As you go about your spring and summer activities, keep these tips in mind:
- Plant trees 25 to 50 feet from power lines.
- Keep landscaping away from pad-mount transformers. LMUD crews need access to these facilities. Shrubs and bushes can get in the way.
- Be aware of overhead lines when cleaning gutters or performing similar activities.
- Never attempt to trim trees that have come in contact with power lines.
- Summertime is yard sale season, but utility poles are not advertising space. Never attach flyers to poles. Nails, screws, and staples pose a hazard to our crews.
Robby Hamlin
General Manager