Tree Trimming Safety

There’s really no other way to say it: Trimming branches or limbs near power lines can kill.

If you look the other way, get distracted by deciding which limb to trim next, or lose your footing, you could inadvertently make contact with a power line. You might think you have a steady hand, but moving a few inches off course could be the last thing you ever do.

It doesn’t take contact with a wire to cause a fatal shock — electricity will jump to find the quickest path to the ground. Keep yourself and your tools or equipment more than 10 feet away from lines.

Did you know trimming within 10 feet (in any direction) of a power line is illegal? Only OSHA-certified line clearance workers are authorized to trim near power lines. So when hiring a tree trimmer to trim near power lines in your yard or on your property, make sure the person you hire is certified to do so.

Remember: Trimming trees within 10 feet of a power line can be fatal. Never trim branches or limbs near a power line. It’s the law: only OSHA-certified line clearance workers are authorized to trim near power lines.

Call us with any questions about trees and power lines at (605) 463-2507.

For more information about electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org.