safety – Dakota Electric Association®

Dakota Electric Association® crews respond quickly to electrical contact incident

Jake Omodt — Tue, 20 May 2025 16:21:04 +0000

The cooperative reminds the public of the importance of electrical safety and emergency preparedness

(FARMINGTON, MN) May 20, 2025 – Around 9:20 a.m. on May 8, a semi-truck was involved in an electrical contact incident near a grain elevator on the edge of Miesville. Two Dakota Electric crews traveling to another job site observed the situation and stopped to respond.

The crews arrived shortly after the vehicle contacted the power lines. Following Dakota Electric’s emergency response procedures, one crew secured the area and notified the control center, which alerted emergency services. The other crew moved the driver to a safe location and began life-saving efforts, later assisted by a Dakota County sheriff’s deputy.

Dakota Electric is proud of the actions of powerline specialist crew chief Greg, powerline specialist journeymen Jake and Reid, and groundman James — the four employees on site who acted in alignment with their training and safety procedures. Their actions helped ensure the safety of those nearby and provided critical, life-saving aid until emergency responders arrived. This swift response — combined with the coordinated support of the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office and the Miesville and Hastings fire departments — demonstrate the shared dedication to public safety among local agencies and utilities.

Dakota Electric crews complete regular CPR training and follow strict safety protocols for working around energized equipment. The cooperative also encourages the public to stay alert when working near or around power lines. If a vehicle contacts a power line, the safest action is to stay inside the vehicle and call 9-1-1. If there is a fire and evacuation is necessary, exit by jumping clear of the vehicle — making sure not to touch the vehicle and ground at the same time — then safely shuffle away without lifting your feet.

Dakota Electric is thankful the driver is in recovery and extends best wishes to him and his family.

Members of the public are reminded that if they see something that appears unsafe, they should call 9-1-1 and report it. Dakota Electric’s emergency line is available 24/7, 365 days a year at 651-463-6201.

Flames engulf a semi-truck after it made contact with electrical equipment near a grain elevator on the edge of Miesville, Minn., on May 8, 2025. Crews from Dakota Electric Association responded to the scene, assisting the driver and securing the area.

From left, Dakota Electric Association employees Reid, powerline specialist journeyman; Greg, powerline specialist crew chief; James, groundman; and Jake, powerline specialist journeyman, were part of the team that responded to an electrical contact incident on May 8 near Miesville, Minn

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.

Electrical Safety Outside the Home

Chris Myers — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 20:51:29 +0000

Power Lines

Keep kits and other flying objects away from power lines.
Never climb trees, poles or towers that are contacting power lines.
When using a ladder, be aware of overhead power lines.

Patios

Install weatherproof boxes or covers on outdoor outlets.
Make sure all lighting is designed for outdoor use.
Throw out damaged extension cords – do not try to repair them.

Pools

Keep electric radios, appliances and wiring for outdoor lighting away from swimming pools.
Never touch an electric device when in a pool
Have your pool/spa wiring inspected annually.

Safety Week

Chris Myers — Mon, 06 May 2024 14:37:43 +0000

This post contains outdated information and is kept for archived purposes only.

It’s National Electrical Safety Month and at Dakota Electric, safety is more than just a priority — it’s a core value that guides everything we do. Our recent annual Safety Week was a testament to this commitment, as we engaged our employees in a series of activities designed to reinforce safety protocols and enhance preparedness. Here’s a glimpse into the highlights of the week:

Dakota Electric’s Safety Week began with powerline safety demonstrations, providing valuable insights into potential hazards and mitigation steps. Additionally, the Personal Threat Alarm Test ensured readiness to respond swiftly to any potential threats.

On Tuesday, line crews showcased their proficiency in pole top rescue operations, enhancing both rescue skills and confidence in handling emergencies. Meanwhile, employee tours offered firsthand insights into field equipment and training processes, fostering continuous learning.

Wednesday focused on preparedness with a hazardous weather drill, ensuring all employees are equipped to handle adverse weather situations effectively. Thursday featured a clean-up day, promoting teamwork and addressing safety concerns in the workplace.

To conclude the week, a motivational speaker inspired employees to prioritize safety in both their professional and personal lives.

Dakota Electric’s Safety Week underscores our commitment to fostering a culture of safety, ensuring it remains a top priority in all our operations to safeguard the well-being of employees and the communities we serve.

Work Zone Safety!

Chris Myers — Mon, 06 May 2024 13:59:52 +0000

This post contains outdated information and is kept for archived purposes only.

If you see roadside crews, please slow down and move over when possible.

Our utility trucks are equipped with flashing lights and reflective materials. Work zones are marked on the road with orange cones and our lineworkers wear reflective clothing when working near roadways, but even with these measures in place, work zones are dangerous. Below are some tips to keep yourself and others safe in work zones.

Pay attention and limit distractions
Follow posted signs
Slow down
Allow plenty of room
Remain calm

Stay safe during planting

allie.shetlerDEA — Mon, 09 May 2022 19:10:14 +0000

This post contains outdated information and is kept for archived purposes only.

Always be aware of power line locations

Farming equipment has become more massive and technologically advanced over time. While these welcome improvements help farmers cover more ground in less time, taller equipment and longer extensions can bring added challenges around power lines.

As farmers start entering the fields for planting, Dakota Electric Association urges everyone in agriculture to be alert to the dangers of working near overhead power lines, poles and other electrical equipment. Here are a few precautions to be aware of:

Make sure everyone knows to maintain a minimum 10-foot clearance from power lines.
If your equipment comes in contact with a power line, stay in the cab, unless it is not safe to do so. If you must leave, keep your feet together and hop away from the area.
Meet with your staff to discuss possible hazards and map out routes where equipment will be moved to ensure it will clear power lines.
When working around power lines, use a spotter who has a broad vantage point.
Lower extensions to the lowest setting when moving loads.
Do not go near someone in equipment that has come in contact with power lines. Call 9-1-1.

Also be aware, springtime is storm season, and damaging storms can cause power outages and knock down power lines. Avoid downed power lines, always assume they are live, don’t go near them and call 9-1-1.

Everyone thinks an electrical accident could never happen to them, but take a minute to learn from Cody Conrady whose life was changed in an instant. Visit Dakota Electric’s “safety” playlist on its YouTube channel to watch safety videos and see Conrady’s story.

A customer-owned, non-profit utility since 1937, Dakota Electric Association provides electricity to more than 110,000 members throughout Dakota County and portions of Goodhue, Rice and Scott counties. Dakota Electric, your Touchstone Energy Cooperative, serves its member-owners with integrity, accountability, innovation and commitment to community.