Working with electricity can be a dangerous job, especially for lineworkers. In fact, in a story published in January, USA Today listed line repairers and installers among the most dangerous jobs in the U.S. That’s why for Yellowstone Valley Electric Cooperative (YVEC), safety is our number one priority. This is not empty talk. Over time, we have created a culture of putting our crews’ safety and that of the communities we serve above all else.
Our mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable energy to you, our consumer-members. Yes, we strive to deliver affordable and reliable electricity to you, but equally important, we want our employees to return home safely to their loved ones. This requires ongoing focus, dedication, vigilance — and your help!
Distractions can be Deadly
While we appreciate your kindness and interest in the work of our crews, we ask that you stay back and let them focus on their task at hand. Even routine work has the potential to be dangerous, and it takes their full attention and that of their colleagues, who are also responsible for the team’s safety. Distractions can have deadly consequences. If a lineworker is on or near your property during a power outage, or for routine maintenance, please allow them ample room to work. These small accommodations help protect our crews — and YOU.
If you have a dog, try to keep it indoors while lineworkers are on or near your property. While most dogs are friendly, some are defensive of their territory and can’t distinguish between a burglar and a utility worker. Our crews work best without a pet “supervising” the job.
For your family’s safety, you want to make sure only authorized workers are on or near your property. You will recognize YVEC’s employees by the service trucks and clothing with our name and logo on them. You may also recognize our lineworkers because they live right here in our local and rural communities we serve. YVEC has also teamed up with St. Vincent Healthcare Foundation on the Slow Down sign campaign. The goal of the signs is to caution speeding drivers to SLOW DOWN. The signs are free and available at YVEC Co-op office or at St. Vincent Healthcare Foundation.
Slow Down and Move Over
Besides giving lineworkers some space while they are near your property, we also ask that you move over or slow down when approaching a utility vehicle on the side of the road. This is an extra barrier of safety to help those who help all of us. YVEC is committed to the importance of safety. Here are some helpful tips if you ever encounter a live wire. These tips can save your life!
Go to www.yvec.com for more safety tips and information.
