Roger Siebert was on his tractor farming when he found himself calling Citizens Electric Corporation to help walk him through a tough situation. 

While bushhogging, a power line fell on the tractor Siebert was operating, so he knew he needed to make a call for help. “I really wanted to just get out of the cab,” he explained. “To be safe, I stayed in the tractor and called Citizens.” 

Operations Support Specialist, Diane Petzoldt received the call from Siebert and prompted him to stay on the tractor while she worked with local emergency management to send crews to his location. 

With the help of volunteer firemen, Citizens Electric crews were able to de-energize the downed line allowing Siebert to go about his day, unharmed.

WHEN THERE IS AN ACCIDENT INVOLVING DOWNED POWER LINES, A PADMOUNT TRANSFORMER, OR OTHER RELATED EQUIPMENT:

• Call 9-1-1 and report that a downed line or other electrical equipment is involved.
• Do not get out of the vehicle until electric utility workers say it is safe to exit.
• Warn those involved in the accident to stay put and alert others who might approach to stay back. 

Exiting the vehicle is the last resort and should only be attempted if the vehicle is on fire or giving off smoke.  If this is the case, exit the vehicle by crossing your arms and jumping with both feet together, ensuring that your arms and legs leave the vehicle at the same time.  Then hop with both feet together as far away from the vehicle as you can. This will ensure that electric current does not travel through the body, possibly leading to electrocution.