Preparing for the Big Hunt

As hunting season approaches, excitement builds for time outdoors. But before you head into the woods, make sure electrical safety is part of your preparation checklist.

Power lines and utility equipment are often out of sight — and out of mind — especially in wooded or rural areas. Ignoring them can lead to serious injuries or even death.

Before you climb that tree stand, look up and out

Never install a tree stand near a power line or on a utility pole. Electricity can arc — jump through the air — up to 10 feet from high-voltage lines. This means you don’t even have to touch a wire to be at risk of electrocution.

Never shoot near or toward power lines, utility poles, transformers or substations. Stray bullets or pellets could damage equipment, possibly interrupting electric service. Even more concerning, they could drop a power line to the ground, causing a hazardous scenario: those who get within 50 feet of a downed line could be shocked or electrocuted.

Keep these tips in mind to stay safe and avoid costly or dangerous incidents:

• Scout the area. Before hunting, take time to scout your area during daylight. Look for power lines, poles and electrical equipment. Note their locations to avoid them later.
• Power safely. If you’re using a portable electrical generator on your hunting trip, don’t use it inside a cabin or RV, or in a confined area. Make sure it’s used outside where there is plenty of ventilation.
• Avoid aiming toward power lines or equipment. Never fire near or toward poles, lines, substations or transformers. A stray bullet could knock down a line, interrupt power or create a deadly hazard.
• Keep your distance. Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead lines, poles and other electrical infrastructure when setting up or taking down tree stands.
• Never climb a utility pole. Even if it looks like the perfect vantage point, don’t do it. Poles carry high-voltage lines, and climbing them can be deadly.
• Don’t use utility poles for support. Tree stands or blinds should never be attached to or supported by power poles or electrical equipment.