NPPD says it's seeing more power lines hit

COLUMBUS - The Nebraska Public Power District wants to remind folks to be careful when operating farm equipment around power lines, because it's seen a recent uptick in lines being hit.

NPPD media relations specialist Grant Otten said they don't know why they've seen so many incidents recently, just that it's more than usual.

“I don’t know the exact number, but it’s been all over the state," Otten said.  "It’s not been in one specific location and more often than not, it’s been a boom sprayer, which they use to spray their crops.”

He said hitting the lines not only causes power outages, it's also potentially fatal.

"We try to get awareness out, saying, ‘hey, just be careful,'" Otten said.  "Be cautious when you’re going out into the field, make sure your equipment can clear the power lines without getting too close.'”

NPPD recommends operators keep their equipment around 20 feet away from power lines. 

They said if members of your farm crew aren't used to working in the field or someone new is operating the equipment, make sure they're up to speed.  If you do hit a line, make sure everyone stays in the vehicle and call an emergency number or your local power district.

“If you try to get out of the vehicle before the power’s off, you could get electrocuted because the ground around the vehicle or equipment could also be electrically charged," Otten said.

He said there have been no injuries in any of the recent incidents, but that it's important to avoid it.

A video on how to safely operate equipment around power lines is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pqwRQwb-LU.

If you hit a power line, call 911 or NPPD at 1-877-ASK-NPPD.