First responders face critical dangers when dealing with emergencies involving electrical infrastructure. To protect themselves and the public, they must be aware of the potential hazards posed by electric substations and transmission lines.
Electricity can be a silent killer, especially when substations fail, or overhead power lines fall. Even if a power line isn’t visibly sparking, it can still energize objects it touches and send a potentially deadly charge into the ground, posing serious risks to anyone nearby.
Recognizing this, Northwest Iowa Power Cooperative (NIPCO), our cooperative’s power supplier, has launched the “5 To Stay Alive” safety campaign to educate western Iowa’s police, fire, and EMS personnel. This campaign provides essential safety protocols to help protect first responders during incidents involving power lines within the NIPCO service territory.
The campaign includes a variety of resources, including magnets and wallet cards, which serve as visual reminders of five critical safety steps recommended by NIPCO. These materials and a safety information letter are available to order, free of charge, in kits on the NIPCO website.
When responding to incidents near electrical infrastructure, it’s vital for first responders to assume that all downed wires are energized and dangerous. NIPCO’s “5 To Stay Alive” campaign outlines five key safety protocols:
Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance until electricity is turned off and NIPCO crews confirm it is safe to proceed. Call NIPCO’s Control Center at 712-546-3573 as soon as possible.
Contain the Spread: Never use water to extinguish an electrical fire, as water conducts electricity and can cause electrocution. Use water sparingly and only in areas at least 50 feet away from electrical equipment.
Watch for Downed Wires: Conduct a 360-degree assessment of the scene to identify any hazards, including downed electric conductors.
Look Up: Be aware of overhead lines that could become downed. Establish a 50-foot safety perimeter and wait for the utility crew to de-energize the scene.
Assume Energization: Always assume conductors and equipment are energized until NIPCO crews confirm they are safe. Once de-energized, it is safe to proceed with rescue and recovery operations.
These safety protocols are vital for protecting both first responders and the communities they serve. We’re proud to support NIPCO’s efforts to enhance safety awareness and provide valuable resources for our local emergency personnel.