June Is National Safety Month: Look Up, Look Down, Stay Safe
As we welcome summer in our beautiful Columbia River Gorge, many of us are eager to tackle outdoor projects. Whether you’re landscaping your yard, building a new deck, or simply planting a garden, June is National Safety Month. It’s the perfect time to remember two critical safety practices: Call before you dig, and always look up for power lines.
Call 811 Before You Dig
Every summer, we hear news about contractors or homeowners accidentally striking underground utility lines. These accidents can result in service disruptions, costly repairs, and serious injuries.
The solution is simple: If you’re planning to put a shovel in the ground, call 811 at least two full business days before you start your project. This free service connects you to the Oregon Utility Notification Center, which coordinates with utility companies to mark underground lines with color-coded spray paint or flags.
Those colorful markings you see on streets and yards aren’t just for decoration. They’re a vital safety measure showing you exactly where underground utilities are. Wait until you see the spray paint or flags in your yard before rolling up your sleeves and getting to work.
Look Up for Power Lines
While we’re often reminded to look down for underground utilities, it’s equally important to look up for overhead power lines. These lines can easily fade into the background of our daily landscape, but coming into contact with them can be deadly.
Overhead power lines require at least 10 feet of clearance in all directions. This applies to distribution lines along roadways and service lines that connect to your home. Even greater clearance is required for large transmission lines and towers.
When working outside, check for overhead lines before using ladders, pool skimmers or pruning poles. As you move around your property, carry ladders and other long items horizontally whenever possible to avoid accidental contact with lines above.
Tree trimming near power lines should never be a DIY project. Leave this dangerous work to certified line clearance professionals who are specially trained to work safely around high-voltage electricity. If your project involves working on your roof, exercise extra caution, especially during windy conditions. Be mindful of service lines that connect to your home.
A Community Committed to Safety
At Northern Wasco County PUD, safety is one of our core values. As your community-owned utility, we want everyone to enjoy a productive and safe summer. Taking these simple precautions protects you, your family, and your neighbors.
One final safety reminder that’s especially important during summer storm season: If you ever encounter a downed power line, always assume it’s energized. Stay at least 50 feet away, keep others clear of the area, and immediately call 911. Never attempt to move or touch a downed line, even if you think it might be deenergized.
As we enjoy the longer days and warmer weather of the season, let’s make safety our top priority. Look up, look down, and stay safe!
Manager Roger Kline