Electrical contact incident serves as reminder of importance of electrical safety, emergency preparedness
Two electric cooperative crews traveling to a job site came upon an emergency situation and stopped to respond, utilizing safety protocols they’d been trained in to help the injured.
Four Dakota Electric Association (DEA) employees came upon the aftermath of a semi-truck involved in an electrical contact incident near a grain elevator. Following the electric cooperative’s emergency response procedures, one crew secured the area and notified the co-op’s control center, which then alerted emergency services.
Meanwhile, the second crew moved the semi-truck driver to a safe location and began performing life-saving aid until emergency responders arrived. The crews’ response received further support from the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office as well as the Miesville and Hastings fire departments.
DEA crews complete regular CPR training and follow strict safety protocols for working around energized equipment. All four employees who were on site during this emergency acted in alignment with that training and safety procedures, ensuring the safety of those nearby while providing critical aid.
Safety reminders for the public
The cooperative also encourages the public to stay alert when working near or around power lines.
If a vehicle comes into contact with a power line, the safest action is to stay inside and call 911. If there is a fire and evacuation is necessary, exit by jumping clear of the vehicle — making sure not to touch the vehicle and ground at the same time — then safely shuffle away without lifting your feet.
Members of the public are reminded that if they see something that appears unsafe, they should call 911 and report it.
" data-object-fit="cover">