Chris Tackmann, General Manager & CEO
Working with electricity can be a dangerous job, especially for line workers. That’s why for Oakdale Electric Cooperative (OEC), safety is one of our top priorities. Over time, we have created a culture of safety for our employees and the community.
Our mission is to provide members with safe, reliable, superior, and competitively priced energy services. Yes, we strive to deliver affordable and reliable electricity to you, but equally important, we want our employees to return home safely to their loved ones. This requires ongoing focus, dedication, and your continued help.
Distractions can be deadly
We appreciate your kindness and interest in the work of our crews; however, we ask that you stay back and let them focus on their tasks. Even routine work has the potential to be dangerous, and it takes their full attention and that of their fellow line workers. Distractions can have deadly consequences. If a line worker is on or near your property during an outage, for vegetation management, or for routine maintenance, please allow them ample room to work. These small accommodations help protect our crews and you.
If you have a dog, try to keep it indoors while line workers are on or near your property. While most dogs are friendly, some can be defensive of their territory and unfortunately unable to distinguish between a burglar and a utility worker.
We recognize that for your family’s safety, you want to make sure only authorized workers are on or near your property. You will recognize OEC employees by their uniforms and the service trucks with our name and logo on them. Feel free to also check with our office if you have questions about who is on your property.
Slow down and move over
In addition to giving line workers some space while they are near your property, we also ask that you move over or slow down when approaching a utility vehicle on the side of the road. This is an extra barrier of safety to help those who help all of us.
Doing these few things, can make a big difference in performing their work safely. We appreciate your help with this.