Take a look in the life of a Pee Dee Electric Lineman as we recognize them and the importance of their role on National Lineman Appreciation Day on April 18. When people flip a light switch, they may not give much thought to why or how the light comes on. Currently, Pee Dee Electric has 21 lineworkers that are responsible for keeping power flowing 24/7, 365 days a year. To do this, they maintain 3,438 miles of power lines across seven counties and roughly 1,375 square miles.

You’ve likely noticed Pee Dee’s crews out and about, working on power lines and other electrical equipment in our community. Lineworkers work with high-voltage electricity, often at great heights, in all kinds of weather conditions, such as snow, wind, rain, ice and extreme heat and cold. The work required to maintain the power grid is physically demanding.

Did you know the equipment and tools that a lineworker carries while climbing a utility pole can weigh up to 50 pounds? That’s the same as carrying six gallons of water.

The work can be heavy, in more ways than one. Did you know the equipment and tools that a lineworker carries while climbing a utility pole can weigh up to 50 pounds? That’s the same as carrying six gallons of water. Speaking of utility poles, lineworkers are required to climb poles ranging anywhere from 30 to 120 feet tall. Needless to say, if you have a fear of heights, this likely isn’t the career path for you.

Linemen work with high-voltage equipment requiring specialized skills, experience and an ongoing mental toughness. Shortcuts are not an option, and there is no room for error in this line of work. The hours are long and ever-present of danger which can truly take a toll. In fact, being a lineworker is listed in the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S.

Despite the many challenges, Pee Dee Electric’s linemen are committed to powering our local community. During severe weather events that bring major power outages, lineworkers are among the first ones called. They must be ready to leave the comfort of their home and families unexpectedly, and they don’t return until the job is done, often days later. They understand the importance of the job to the community.

So, the next time you see a lineworker, please thank them for the work they do working around the clock to keep power flowing, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. After all, these linemen are the power behind your power.