GADSDEN/TALLADEGA, AL — Nearly 70 first responders from across East Alabama participated in two electrical safety training sessions hosted by Alabama Power’s Public Safety Awareness team on Thursday, Aug. 13.
The Safe-T-Zone events, held in the Talladega and Gadsden areas, brought together personnel from multiple law enforcement, fire and emergency response agencies for training focused on electrical hazards they may encounter while responding to emergencies.
Participating agencies included the Talladega Fire Department, Munford Fire Department, Winterboro Volunteer Fire Department, Talladega County Sheriff’s Office, Gadsden Police Department, Gadsden Fire Department, Rainbow City Police Department, Ballplay Bend Fire Department and Etowah County 911, among others.
During the sessions, Alabama Power’s Public Safety Awareness team guided participants through several scenarios with assistance from experienced company lineworkers. Topics included responding to downed power lines, handling substation fires, understanding generator backfeed and recognizing step potential, an electrical hazard that can occur near energized equipment or downed power lines.
Each session concluded with a question-and-answer period, giving first responders an opportunity to discuss situations they may encounter in the field.
Alabama Power personnel assisting with the training included Joe Tillery, field services manager; Daniel Nance, local operations lineman; LP Miles, senior distribution specialist; Cory Eubanks, crew foreman; and Jordan Shears, local operations lineman.
Safe-T-Zone presenters included Robyn Edwards and Barbara “Laine” Bates, both senior risk management analysts. Steven Marlowe, Eastern Division area manager, and Spencer Williams, community relations manager, assisted in coordinating the events.
Gadsden Fire & Rescue Battalion Chief Lecil Harrelson said understanding electrical hazards can help first responders better protect themselves while working emergency scenes.
“The more we understand about the hazards we face, the better prepared we are to go home safely after every call,” Harrelson said. “Safe-T-Zone is a great reminder that knowledge and preparation are two of the most important tools we carry to the scene.”
Harrelson also thanked the Alabama Power employees who participated in the training.
“We especially appreciate the experienced Alabama Power lineworkers who volunteer their own time to share their knowledge and experience with those of us who may encounter these hazards while responding to emergencies,” Harrelson said. “Thank you to Alabama Power for investing in the safety of our first responders and our community.”
The Safe-T-Zone sessions are part of Alabama Power’s public safety outreach efforts aimed at providing first responders with information about electrical infrastructure and potential hazards they may encounter during emergency response.
