As seeding gets underway across Saskatchewan, SaskPower reminds farmers to make safety their top priority.

Last year, SaskPower recorded 262 farm-related incidents involving power infrastructure – down from 268 in 2024 – with the majority occurring in the spring.

“Preparation is vital when operating farm equipment around power lines. Plan your route before heading out, know what to do if a line contact happens, and plan routine breaks to avoid fatigue,” said Nidal Dabghi, Director of Safety at SaskPower. “Safety is SaskPower’s top priority, and we want everyone working in the fields this spring to come home safe at the end of the day.”

SaskPower offers the following tips to help keep safe during spring seeding:

• Plan your route ahead of time using our interactive Look Up and Live map
• Lower or retract equipment all the time when crossing or working around power lines
• Use a spotter for a second set of eyes on the ground
• Take routine breaks to avoid fatigue
• If you’re moving a large load around power lines, request a temporary line lift

Should a line contact occur, operators should remain in their vehicle and dial 911 immediately. In the event of a fire igniting due to the line contact, operators should follow the safe exit procedure:

• Swing the vehicle door wide open, making sure to not touch the outside of the vehicle
• Make sure no wires are in your way
• Stand in the doorway of the vehicle, cross your arms in front of your chest and put your feet together
• Jump as far from the vehicle as possible landing with your feet together, ensuring you don’t touch the outside of the vehicle.
• With your arms still crossed and feet together, hop at last 10 meters away from the vehicle
• Call 911 immediately
• Do not return to your vehicle until the area has been made safe
• For more information on safety working near power lines, visit saskpower.com/lookupandlive

At a glance...

• SaskPower is encouraging farmers to prioritize safety during seeding
• There were 262 farm-related line contacts in 2024, with most happening in the spring
• Being prepared is key to working safely around power lines
• Learn more at saskpower.com/lookupandlive