A MAJOR electricity provider is reminding farmers to be cautious around their electrical infrastructure during harvest.

Acting on insights drawn from contributors in farming communities, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution's annual 'Look out, Look up' safety campaign highlights the risks of contact with power lines and the impact this can have on families.

Last year, it reported 17 incidents involving individuals working on farms and fields across its network in central southern England.

The 2024 campaign integrates the use of radio, trade press, digital and social media advertising.

It also incorporates discussions, meetings and events across SSEN's north and south distribution areas.

These initiatives will be conducted throughout the harvest months, allowing farmers, contractors and SSEN to continue disseminating safety information from spring to autumn.

A key aspect of SSEN's campaigns includes paying heed and responding to feedback from its customers and stakeholders.

The 'Look out, Look up' safety campaign this year aims to have a deeper emotional resonance through evocative words and imagery for farmers and their families.

To help farmers stay safe, SSEN has provided several guidelines when working near the electricity network.

It advises looking out for power lines before starting farm work, and never touching an overhead line.

If machinery collides with a power line, individuals should stay within the vehicle if safe, call 105 and await aid.

They are reminded not to touch any part of the machinery on the ground, as electrocution can occur.

SSEN further stresses that even if a line appears dead, it should not be handled as automatic switching may reconnect the power.

For further information on safety procedures around the electrical network, please visit: www.ssen.co.uk/farmsafety.