A downed power line is deadly. If you spot a fallen wire, keep at least 10 metres away, even if it doesn't appear to be live. If a wire falls across your vehicle, don't get out—you could become a path for electricity if you touch the ground. If you must get out, hop out clear of the truck and land on both feet, then hop or shuffle until you are 10 metres clear of the vehicle.

Remember the safe limits of approach. Electricity can arc or “jump” from the wire to a conducting object like a ladder or a truck. Keep at least 3 metres distance between you and overhead distribution power lines and 6 metres for high voltage transmission lines at all times.

Be aware of safety hazards below. Call before you dig, call BC One Call at 1-800-474-6886 to avoid coming into contact with underground cables and service lines. The call is free, and it could save your life.

Look up and live. Before you start work, look up and around the site and make sure you and your crew are aware of all overhead lines. Ladders, cranes and pipes are all good conductors of electricity, and remember, it doesn’t need to be touching a power line to become energized.

Steer clear of overhead lines. To avoid a potential accident, never stand irrigation pipes near overhead power lines.Always have a signaler to warn you when you are getting too close. Keep at least 3 metres distance between you and overhead distribution power lines and 6 metres for high voltage transmission lines at all times.

You hold their lives in your hands. Safety training is critical and as a supervisor or foreman, you hold your workers' lives in your hands. Don't put them at risk. Ensure that they have the critical safety training they need to go home safely to their families.