SaskPower shares safety tips as seeding begins

WATCH: Sask Power says safety is the watchword when it comes to powerlines. Find out what to look out for to make sure you and your farm are safe.

As farmers head back into the fields this spring – SaskPower is yet again reminding residents to be cautious around infrastructure such as power lines.

In 2024, SaskPower recorded 262 farm-related incidents involving its infrastructure – down from 268 in 2023.

The vast majority of incidents occurred in the spring during seeding.

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“Our top priority is safety,” spokesperson Scott McGregor told CTV News Saskatchewan Morning Live. “We really want to remind producers, farmers, large equipment operators who are working out in the fields during seeding to make safety a priority.”

The provincial Crown advised producers to use its interactive Look Up and Live map as part of their preparations. Additionally, it suggested using a spotter for a second pair of eyes and to request a temporary line lift if moving a large load around power lines.

In the event of a line contact, SaskPower says operators should remain in their vehicle and dial 911 immediately.

However, in the event of a fire, operators must follow a safe exit procedure. It includes:

• Swing the vehicle door wide open, making sure to not touch the outside of the vehicle.
• Make sure no wires are in your way.
• Stand in the doorway of the vehicle, cross your arms in front of your chest and put your feet together.
• Jump as far from the vehicle as possible landing with your feet together, ensuring you don’t touch the outside of the vehicle.
• With your arms still crossed and feet together, hop at last 10 meters away from the vehicle.
• Call 911 immediately.
• Do not return to your vehicle until the area has been made safe.

More safety information from SaskPower can be found here.