SaskPower reports spike in line, pole strikes in 2025

Power lines near Lestock, Saskatchewan can be seen in this file photo. (David Prisciak/CTV News)

SaskPower is once again highlighting farm equipment safety after a significant spike in farm-related incidents involving power lines and power poles.

According to the Crown corporation, a total of 315 farm incidents involving powerline infrastructure were reported in 2025. This was an increase from 262 reported in 2024 and 268 in 2023.

The Crown shared the statistics as part of its annual public safety awareness campaign. Fatigue, underestimating the size of their equipment, and digging too close to lines remain the most common causes of incidents involving farmers and SaskPower equipment.

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The utility provider urged producers to be aware of power lines in their area and to plan their routes ahead of time.

If a line contact does occur, SaskPower reiterated that operators should not exit their vehicle unless it’s on fire. In case of a fire, operators must:

Make sure no wires are in the way

Stand in the vehicle’s doorway and cross their arms and put their feet together

Jump as far as possible, keeping their feet together

Make sure not to touch the vehicle

Keeping arms crossed and feet together, hop at least 10 metres to safety.

More information can be found on SaskPower’s website.