SAFETY & SAVINGS TIPS
ENSURING HUNTER SAFETY AND PROTECTING FIBER LINES: A CRUCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Within Altamaha EMC/Fiber, serving over 20,000 members, ensuring the safety and upkeep of our power grid stands as our top priority. Our network of power lines, fiber lines, and utility poles forms the backbone of dependable electricity and high-speed internet services. However, an unfortunate trend has emerged: incidents of power lines and fiber lines being damaged by gunfire.
RECOGNIZING RESPONSIBLE HUNTERS: While most hunters prioritize safety and understand the dangers of discharging firearms near our infrastructure, we call upon their expertise and experience. We invite responsible hunters, who know the area well, to assist in identifying the locations of our electrical equipment for younger, less-experienced hunters. Preventing any tampering or misuse of our fiber and electric lines is paramount, as such actions not only endanger lives but also disrupt services for all our members.
IMPACTS OF DAMAGE: A single shot damaging an electric or fiber line can lead to substantial repair costs, ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. This financial burden affects not just the cooperative but also every member relying on uninterrupted power and internet connectivity. Hence, it is imperative to stress the importance of safeguarding our lines and utility poles.
PROMOTING EDUCATION AND AWARENESS: To mitigate the risks associated with damage to our power and fiber lines, we emphasize education and awareness. Encouraging experienced hunters to educate others about potential hazards and the locations of our infrastructure helps instill a culture of responsible hunting. By disseminating knowledge about the consequences of damaging lines, we aim to reduce the likelihood of accidents and preserve the integrity of our cooperative's infrastructure.
ACOLLABORATIVE ENDEAVORS: We urge all members to collaborate in preserving the safety and reliability of our system. Through fostering open communication and cooperation among hunters, firearm enthusiasts, and the cooperative, we can establish a harmonious environment that ensures continued access to essential services for all our members. Preserving our fiber lines, power lines, and utility poles is crucial for the well-being of Altamaha EMC/Fiber's members. Responsible hunting practices, coupled with education and awareness, are pivotal in preventing damage to our infrastructure. Let us unite in our dedication to safety, thereby safeguarding the reliability of our power grid and maintaining the comforts and conveniences we all enjoy through reliable electricity and quality internet services.
TIPS TO PROTECT EQUIPMENT AND STAY SAFE
• Do not shoot at or near power lines, fiber lines or electrical equipment.
• Familiarize yourself with the location of power lines and equipment on the land where you shoot/hunt.
• Be aware and take note of your surroundings.
• Take notice of warning signs and keep clear of electrical equipment.
• Do not shoot at, or near, birds perching on utility lines with any type of firearm, including pistols, rifles, shotguns or bows.
• Keep a safe distance from power lines and electrical equipment when hunting. Accidents can be easily avoided if you do so.
• Be especially careful in wooded areas where power lines may not be as visible.
• Never use utility poles or towers to support equipment used in your shooting activity.
• Never climb poles or place deer stands on utility poles. Energized lines and equipment on the poles can conduct electricity to anyone who comes in contact with them, causing shock or electrocution.
• Do not place decoys or any other hunting/shooting equipment on power lines or other utility equipment. Anything attached to a pole other than utility equipment can pose an obstruction, and a serious hazard, to electric cooperative employees as they perform utility operations.
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