Submitted by OPALCO

Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed July 10 as Lineworker Appreciation Day and OPALCO invites its members to give their local line workers a proud salute.

OPALCO’s team of line workers keep the lights on for more than 11,300 co-op members on 20 islands in San Juan County. That is no small task.

In addition to a high-five, fist bump or plate of home-baked cookies, there are a couple of things everyone can do to make the tough job the line workers do a little bit easier.

1. Call before you dig on every single project – whether it’s a shovel or a backhoe. You can call 811 from a landline, or 800-424-5555 from a mobile line. Mark the locate area with white paint before you call.

2. Keep vegetation at least 10 feet away from OPALCO’s transformer boxes and power lines. If you’re concerned about trees growing into your lines, call 360-376-3532.

The line crew will give safety demonstrations at the County Fair in August; stop by and say hello. Kids will be invited to join the “Play it Safe” campaign with fun activities and prizes.