Harvest operations are underway in Saskatchewan, which means both producers and drivers need to be mindful of safety.
Collisions between agriculture equipment and power lines increase during this time of year.
Since January 2020, there have been over 200 incidents involving farm machinery contacting power lines and poles. SaskPower reported 327 incidents involving farm equipment in 2019, resulting in damages in excess of $635,000. During the 2019 harvest season (Aug. 1 to Oct. 31), there were 81 incidents involving farm equipment.
“We’re reporting roughly 30 fewer incidents involving farm equipment from this time last year – which is encouraging – but that’s still too many incidents,” said Kevin Schwing, director of safety at SaskPower. “We still need to remind everyone to be extremely careful when operating equipment near power lines, and to get home safe at the end of the day.”
SaskPower says such incidents are ultimately preventable. Operators should take their time, locate overhead lines, identify risks, and have a good understanding of the size of their equipment. Operators should also use a spotter and lower equipment when working near power lines and guy wires.
If contacted is made, operators should remain in the vehicle or farm implement, providing it is safe to do so. Contact SaskPower immediately at 310-2220.
Meanwhile, the provincial government is also reminding drivers to be aware of slow moving farm machinery on provincial highways.
“Agriculture is the foundation of Saskatchewan's economy, so we understand the importance of getting the crop off and safely into the bin,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Greg Ottenbreit said in a press release. “We all need to do our part to keep highways safe for everyone, so please be aware of slower moving equipment.”
Drivers should be careful when passing slow-moving farm equipment. Plan ahead and allow for extra time for travel.
