Irrigation safety and lightning

It’s summer, farming is in full swing, as are thunderstorms and lightning.

For farmers who irrigate, Clemson Extension agents say spending a few extra bucks can help save a life or prevent permanent disabilities.

Lightning and thunderstorms typically occur during spring and summer months when farmers irrigate. Lighting can be deadly if farmers do not properly check their irrigation systems.

Chase Smoak, Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service horticulture agent for Lee and Sumter Counties, reports a local farmer was checking his center pivot irrigation system when a storm blew in. The farmer could have been electrocuted had he not spent a few seconds to take one important step.

“After the storm had passed, he noticed the pivot was not functioning correctly, so he used a voltage tester to test the pivot before opening the panel box,” Smoak said. “The pivot carried an electrical charge and the outcome could have been life-threatening had the farmer not checked the system.”

Voltage testers are used to check for voltage in wires or devices without users having to touch any electrical parts. Some testers cost less than $10. Charles Davis, Clemson Extension row crop agent for Calhoun and Richland Counties, said this is small price to pay for such an important tool.

“Lighting can strike an area before, after and in the absence of rain, so it is good to get in the habit of using a tester to check a system each time before touching it,” Davis said. “Test before you touch. It could save your life.”