3 dic 2025
Prince George Electric Cooperative recently welcomed 26 local first responders for an in-depth Hazard Awareness Training and Live Line Demonstration designed to strengthen community safety and reinforce lifesaving knowledge when responding to emergencies involving electricity.
The training brought together firefighters, EMTs, and other emergency personnel from Ivor Vol. Fire Dept., Waverly Vol. Rescue Squad, Prince George Vol. Fire Dept., Wakefield Vol. Fire Dept., Waverly Vol. Fire Dept., Dendron Vol. Fire Dept., Sussex Courthouse Vol. Fire Dept., and Burrowsville Vol. Fire Dept., for a hands-on, scenario-based session led by cooperative employees. The focus of the evening centered on one core goal: helping first responders recognize electrical hazards and understand how to safely navigate situations involving energized equipment or downed lines.
“First responders are often the first on the scene, and they face immense pressure to act quickly,” said Lee Chappell, the co-op’s director of safety and loss control. “But when electricity is involved, rushing in can put everyone at greater risk. Our goal is to provide practical knowledge that helps them balance the urgency of rendering aid with the critical need for scene safety.”
Throughout the training, cooperative personnel walked attendees through the unique dangers posed by energized lines, step-potential risks, vehicle or structure contact, and the importance of establishing safe perimeters. Participants also discussed real-world examples and best practices for communicating with utilities during emergency response.
The evening concluded with a live line demonstration—one of the most impactful components of the event. Using energized equipment, linemen showcased several scenarios first responders may encounter in the field, including downed lines, electrical arcing, and the effects of contact with energized objects.
The demonstration highlighted not only the power and unpredictability of electricity but also the importance of staying vigilant, maintaining distance, and waiting for utility crews to de-energize equipment before approaching.
“We’re proud to partner with our local first responders and provide training that helps keep them—and the public—safe,” said Chappell. “Their commitment to protecting this community is unwavering, and we’re honored to support the work they do.”
Prince George Electric Cooperative plans to continue offering training opportunities and educational demonstrations to strengthen safety awareness among emergency personnel and deepen cooperative-community partnerships.