Safety- Hunting and Electricity

With fall in full swing, hunting season is upon us. With tranquil terrain and a pristine ecosystem, North Dakota’s diverse hunting scene is second to none. Whether it be tracking, hunting, and harvesting tender venison and pheasant meat or the allure of bagging a trophy elk, hunting in the Peace Garden State spawns memories that will last a lifetime.

And while the thoughts of getting lost in nature on a beautiful fall morning in pursuit of prey spurs joy, the perfect hunt cannot happen without safety…and that includes electrical safety.

Simply put, guns, bows, and other hunting gear do not mix with power equipment. While we’re thrilled to call the land around us home, Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC) implores all hunters to be mindful, aware, and proactive when it comes to electrical safety.

Never shoot near or toward power lines, power poles, transformers or substations.  A stray bullet can not only damage equipment and/or potentially interrupt electric service but also could be deadly to the shooter. Damage to the conductor could drop the power line to the ground, causing a possibility of electrocution to those nearby.

CCEC urges hunters to follow these safety tips while hunting:
• Familiarize yourself with the location of power lines and equipment on land where you shoot.
• Be careful in wooded areas where power lines may not be as visible.
• Take notice of warning signs and keep clear of electrical equipment.
• Do not place deer stands on utility poles or climb poles. Energized lines and equipment on the poles can conduct electricity to anyone who comes in contact with them.
• Do not place signs or decoys on power lines, poles, or other utility equipment. Anything attached to a pole, except for utility equipment, is an obstruction and poses a serious hazard to utility workers.

“We ask farmers and landowners not to attach posted signs to our power poles. We also want hunters to be mindful of overhead lines and to not shoot birds from power lines or poles. If you come across downed poles or power lines, please call 911 to report the issue,” CCEC President/CEO Paul Matthys said.

In the event that you strike, shoot, or damage any piece of CCEC utility equipment or structures, contact CCEC immediately. The safety of hunters and all members is paramount to CCEC, and we wish all hunters a safe and successful season!