When most people think about their electric cooperative, they think about reliable power. And they should. Keeping the lights on is what we do. But at Crow Wing Power, we believe our responsibility goes beyond delivering electricity. We also have a responsibility to help keep our communities safe. That’s why safety remains our number one priority, not only for our employees, but for our members and our community as well.
This year, our lineworkers and power quality employees took that commitment a step further by designing and building a new electrical safety trailer. The trailer gives us a hands-on way to teach people what electricity can do and, more importantly, how to stay safe around it. This spring, our crews visited local elementary schools and spent time with fourth-grade students learning about electrical safety. The demonstrations brought important lessons to life. Students saw why birds can safely sit on power lines, learned what can happen when a vehicle comes into contact with a downed line, and experienced the loud sound of a fuse operating during an electrical fault. The goal is simple: help people understand the dangers before an accident happens.
Our outreach extends beyond the classroom. In June, we shared electrical safety demonstrations at Brisket on the Farm, and you’ll find us in the community throughout the summer at the Crow Wing County Fair and Morrison County Fair.
We’re also working alongside local first responders to improve emergency response involving power lines, transformers, and other electrical equipment. Through this partnership, Crow Wing Power lineworkers are available to respond when electrical expertise is needed at an emergency scene. Having trained personnel and specialized equipment available can save valuable time when every minute matters. We’re proud of the work being done because safety is not just a program. It’s a commitment. It’s one more way your cooperative is working every day to serve and protect the communities we call home.
Safety First, Always
Chris Olson