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Cornhusker Public Power Presents Electrical Safety Program to the 5th Graders
The fifth graders of Howells-Dodge Consolidated took part in a one-hour electrical safety program demonstration sponsored by Cornhusker Public Power District out of Columbus, Nebraska. Andrea Hoessel, marketing assistant, and Jay Wemhoff, lineman, presented the program.
At the beginning of the program, we discussed several electrical terms and facts. Electricity is always “searching” for the shortest and easiest path to the ground. Two of the terms that go along with this fact are conductors and insulators. We learned that we, as humans, are very good conductors of electricity. Our bodies are approximately 70% water, and water is a very good conductor of electricity. Rubber is an excellent insulator. Jay Wemhoff showed us the equipment he wears when working anywhere near electricity. He wears very heavy gloves and arm shields that are made of rubber. These shields and gloves are inspected monthly to be sure they provide the safety the linemen need.
We discussed the many good things electricity does for us. Students were reminded that without electricity, we would not have heat in the winter or air conditioning during the hot summer, stoves, microwaves, washers and dryers, television, computers, etc. Ms. Hoessel and Mr. Wemhoff talked about very important safety precautions we all must take around electricity. They brought “Hazard Hamlet Town” to demonstrate many ways people do not consider the dangers of electricity. During this demonstration, we were told about ways to avoid electrical hazards. For example, if a pop-tart gets stuck in the toaster, the appliance should be unplugged before trying to remove the pastry.
Ms. Hoessel and Mr. Wemhoff also told us about what we should do if we are ever in an accident involving a power pole or power line. It is important for us to stay in our car, unless it is on fire, until someone from the power company arrives. If a person must exit the car, he must be sure to jump away from the car and land on both feet. After jumping, a person can shuffle his feet until reaching a safe distance from the electrical wires.
We were then taken outside to see the equipment Mr. Wemhoff uses when he has to climb electrical poles. He showed us the spikes he attaches to his boots and the heavy belt he wears in order to get his work done on the pole. He also showed us the very large belt he must strap on to carry his tools and to strap him to the pole. The kids loved watching him “climb” the pole!
The demonstration ended with a safety video that summarized a lot of what was discussed. We were provided with vital electrical safety information and thoroughly enjoyed this program! Thank you Ms. Hoessel and Mr. Wemhoff!