When a customer needed to add an electrical panel to their home, they sought the help of a local contractor. Unfortunately, the contractor was not a licensed electrician and he wired the new panel incorrectly. He also pulled the meter to disconnect power multiple times while working in the customer’s home. Both instances could have resulted in an electrical fire, physical injuries or even death.
Dawson PPD’s technology helps report power outages. An employee noticed a disconnected meter through a computer reading and sent a maintenance lineworker to investigate. The lineworker discovered the pulled meter and disconnected the power for safety purposes.
Major residential electrical upgrades require an electrical inspection according to Nebraska law. It is important for homeowners to contact Dawson PPD to ensure that the District’s existing electrical equipment can support the upgrades. Without proper notification, the electric service may be disconnected or unreliable. Damage to either Dawson PPD or the homeowner’s property may occur.
It is not safe for unqualified individuals to pull a meter to disconnect power.
“Pulling the meter does not guarantee that the power is disconnected,” said Safety and Loss Prevention Coordinator Dean Kunkee. “There’s a high chance for an arc flash if the meter is pulled. This can cause an electrical fire and seriously injure or kill a person.”
An arc flash is a phenomenon where a flashover of electric current leaves its intended path and travels through the air from one conductor to another, or to the ground. The results are often violent. Injury or death can occur when a person is near the arc flash.
“The main thing to remember is the meter is not a disconnect device,” he said.
Consider installing a disconnect or double-throw switch to safely disconnect power. Dawson PPD offers a rebate for a double-throw (also known as transfer switches) worth $200-300. Customers may also request temporary electrical disconnection.
It is also important to hire a licensed, qualified electrician when planning major electrical upgrades. Homeowners may search the Nebraska State Electrical Division’s website for licensed electricians.
Dawson PPD is committed to the electrical safety of the public. If you are planning to do any electrical work in your home, please safely disconnect electrical power and consider hiring a licensed electrician.
OTHER NEWS
Batie appointed to Dawson PPD Board of Directors
Don Batie has been appointed to fill a vacant seat on the Dawson Public Power District Board of Directors. He began his duties in May.
Volunteers needed for therapy horse program
Volunteers are the heart of every non-profit organization, and the Kearney Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program is no exception. The independent, non-profit organization is dedicated to fostering emotional, physical and social well-being through horseback riding. It is designed to meet the needs of individuals of all ages and disabilities.
Turning over the torch
After 28 years of service, Engineering Coordinator Rose Welch is ready to pass the torch. “I’m extremely happy that I was able to carry one of the many torches at Dawson PPD for 28 years, and I’m honored to now hand the torch to the next generation of Dawson PPD,” she...