Our Grantsboro linemen performed a high-voltage safety demonstration for the Blounts Creek Volunteer Fire Department on April 25.

Electrical hazards can threaten the lives of first responders. Follow safe practices every time when it comes to electrical hazards:

• Evaluate the scene and identify all potential and existing hazards.
• If electricity is involved, call the electric utility immediately.
• If there are downed lines, consider them energized, secure the scene and wait until the utility crew has deenergized the scene before proceeding/ approaching.
• Coordinate and communicate with the utility crew on the scene

Don’t take chances. It may be difficult to wait, but approaching an energized area puts you and fellow first responders at risk of electrocution. Always wait for utility crews to confirm that lines are deenergized.