We offer online resources:
- Touchstone Energy Kids Zone This site is a cool place for kids to learn about electricity, energy savings and electrical safety.
- Electrical Safety at Home and Work This site includes how-to information on indoor and outdoor electrical projects and case studies of tragedies and how to avoid those same mistakes.
- Electrical Safety Foundation International This site offers information for home, work, and educators, as well as seasonal safety tips and brochures.
- Kids Korner Explore energy sources, efficiency, and safety, and perform experiments, try out activities, and play games.
- Energy Kid's Page Check out information about renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, learn about recycling and why it's important, and find some great jokes, energy slang, and activity pages.
- Energized Learning This site includes information designed for middle and high school students, teachers, and parents.
- Safe Electricity.org This site includes tips, news articles, videos, teacher materials, and much more.
- National Food and Energy Council information on grain bin clearances. If you are planning to install a grain bin, check out this resource to help you plan for electrical safety. Additional information: Locating Grain Bins Safely.
- Iowa One Call. If you are planning on doing any building or landscaping, you will need to call Iowa One Call at least 48 hours prior to any digging. This allows your local utilities to mark any underground wires, etc. This is for your safety and will help to eliminate interruption of service. The number is toll-free: (800) 292-8989 or visit Iowa One Call.
Our Top 10 list of electrical safety tips:
10. Keep all objects (ladders, farm equipment) at least 10 feet away from power lines
9. Be aware of power line locations when moving farm equipment and know what to do if you come in contact with lines.
8. Never attempt to move or raise electric lines; instead, call Corn Belt Power Cooperative for assistance.
7. Do not attempt to remove items (fallen tree branches, kites, etc.) from power lines
6. Plant trees at least 30 feet away from power lines so the tree won't eventually grow into the lines.
5. Install and repair electrical outlets and appliances using precautions and safety measures, including shutting off power (and testing to be sure power is off), safety equipment and tools, and/or hiring a licensed electrician to do the job.
4. Follow safety procedures if your equipment or vehicle comes in contact with a power line, including: 1) try to drive out from under it if you can or 2) stay in place and have someone call for help immediately or 3) if you must leave the vehicle: jump clear without making contact with the ground and vehicle at the same time.
3. Read and follow all safety instructions that come with appliances you purchase and use.
2. Have a family plan outlining what to do in case of electrical emergency. For example, call 911 for injuries or electrical fires, and stay away from downed power lines.
1. Call Boone Valley Electric Cooperative immediately if you see an electrical safety hazard: 515-824-3381.