Safety

OTEC adopted the Rural Electric Safety Achievement Program (RESAP) in 2021 to achieve a high standard of safety for our employees, member-owners, communities, and businesses within the cooperative. We are committed to providing clear expectations, education, and training to reach our goal of continually improving our safety culture. We incorporate safety as an integral aspect of all operations and a core value of OTEC.  


The senior leadership at OTEC has shown their commitment to safety through the Commitment to Zero Contacts and RESAP programs, and in return, they have asked for and received the same commitment from our employees. This is essential in defining and operating a successful safety program that protects our people and the public.

Downed Power Line Safety

power lines

Downed power lines can be deadly. Always assume downed power lines are live and avoid approaching them or anything near them. 

Use Precaution!
  • Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 50 feet away, even more in wet conditions.
  • Never drive over downed power lines or anything in contact with them.
  • Never try to move a downed power line.
  • If you see a downed power line, call 911.
If a vehicle contacts a power line or utility pole, stay away and call 911.
  • Consider all lines to be live and dangerous.
  • Warn others to stay at least 50 feet away.
  • If your vehicle contacts a power line or utility pole, stay in place or inside your vehicle unless you see fire or smoke.
  • Tell others not to approach the vehicle, downed lines, or anything that may be in contact with downed lines.
In the event of fire or smoke:
  • Do not touch the ground and vehicle at the same time.
  • Jump from the vehicle with your feet together.
  • KEEP your arms crossed, feet together, and HOP at least 50 feet to safety. 
    If you feel any tingling, HOP further away.