For Release: 11/06/2009

"Be Safe during Fall Yard Clean-up," says Public Service

Green Bay, WI - Homeowners are now busy doing fall yard work and getting ready for winter. Wisconsin Public Service would like to offer some safety tips as there are potentially dangerous situations associated with annual fall yard clean-up activities.

Ladders, tree branches and power lines do not mix. Whether cleaning gutters, painting, adding storm windows or making roof repairs, it is best to stay at least ten feet from any power line while working around the home.

Placing ladders against 'round' power poles or tree trunks will result in an unsafe and unstable condition for anyone attempting to climb. Through normal growth, tree branches can inadvertently become intertwined with overhead power lines. This growth is not always clearly visible. If you have trees near or around power lines, do not trim them yourself. Hire a professional.

Wisconsin Public Service has an established tree-trimming program for larger electrical feeder lines with regular trimming every three years in residential areas and every four to five years in rural areas.

For individual homeowners that need general tree trimming (which may include clearing areas near service lines to their house), Public Service encourages customers to use a certified tree trimmer with professional credentials and a proven track record.

If there is a potentially dangerous situation that needs immediate attention, Public Service will send a tree trimming crew to rectify the situation. Tree branches, people and equipment are natural conductors of electricity. Fall is also a good time to plant trees and there are two basic safety measures to take:

Look Down - Before you dig that hole, find out exactly where buried utility lines are. Contact Diggers Hotline at 800-242-8511 in Wisconsin or the Miss Dig Hotline at 800-482-7171 in Michigan. Or just call the national three-digit number -- 811. Allow three working days before a service person can get to your residence and check for buried utility pipes, wires or any other underground services. Look Up - Check above you to make sure you do not plant a high growth tree beneath an overhead power line. Proper planning can help prevent the tree from growing into power lines in the future.

As you crank up your home thermostat, remember to have your heating equipment inspected by a professional. Proper maintenance will help keep you safe and warm all winter long.

There are many helpful safety tips available on the company web site.

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