State law requires you to notify all underground utility providers at least two days before beginning any excavation, whether it's a major construction project or simple landscaping. GCEC partners with “Dig Tess” to assist in notifying utilities near your worksite. Simply call 1-800-Dig Tess (344-8377). Knowing what's below can help you avoid legal issues and potentially save your life.
A contractor will visit your site to mark utility locations with flags and spray paint, ensuring that your project proceeds safely.
Electricity is essential to modern life, powering industries and everyday tasks, but it can also be dangerous—even deadly. Electricity seeks the easiest path to the ground, so if you come into contact with equipment touching a power line, you could suffer a fatal shock. Follow these safety guidelines to avoid accidents and safely enjoy the benefits of electricity:
Always keep equipment such as cranes, ladders, tree-pruners, and TV antennas at least 10 feet away from power lines. Depending on the voltage, electricity can arc to nearby equipment, even if it’s not touching the line. Other important reminders include:
If your equipment or vehicle contacts a power line, don’t panic. Assume the line is energized and stay inside your vehicle unless there's an immediate danger, such as a fire or moving power line.
If you must leave the vehicle, jump clear, landing with both feet together, and make sure no part of your body touches the equipment and ground simultaneously. Call 911 as soon as possible, and do not return to the vehicle until emergency personnel declare it safe.
Avoid downed power lines and report them immediately to GCEC at 903-482-7100. Always assume a downed line is energized and never attempt to touch or move it. If a co-worker is in contact with a downed line, do not attempt a rescue—wait for GCEC and emergency personnel to arrive.
Always check for overhead power lines before starting work. If power lines might interfere with your project, contact GCEC at 903-482-7100 at least two business days before beginning. GCEC can provide guidance on the safest way to proceed.
Planning for outages with a generator is smart, but following safety protocols is key to protecting our linemen and equipment. Read more about staying safe on our Generator Safety page.
