Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) line crews recently completed hands-on pole-top rescue training at UEC’s Hermiston training yard in partnership with Baker Technical Institute (BTI) and Umatilla County Fire District #1 (UCFD #1).
The training was designed to strengthen crews’ ability to respond effectively to emergency situations in the field. Using realistic scenarios, employees practiced pole-top rescue techniques, mayday communications, CPR, first aid, and AED response. UCFD #1 personnel were also on site to provide additional expertise and share best practices for responding to emergency situations and performing life-saving procedures.
Throughout the training, crews worked in small groups to develop and stage emergency scenarios based on situations that could occur during utility work. Other teams were then tasked with responding to each scenario, assessing the situation, determining an appropriate course of action, performing the rescue, and communicating with dispatch and emergency services when necessary.
Following each exercise, participants gathered for a group debrief to review the response, discuss challenges, and identify opportunities to improve future rescues. The hands-on format allowed crews to practice making critical decisions in a controlled environment while reinforcing the importance of clear communication and teamwork during an emergency.
The annual training provides UEC line crews with an opportunity to regularly practice emergency response skills and prepare for situations that may require immediate action. The realistic scenarios also help reinforce procedures and strengthen coordination among employees and emergency response partners.
BTI has worked with UEC on a variety of utility training programs and continues to expand its training capabilities with an emphasis on utility safety. UEC remains committed to providing ongoing training and development for employees across the organization.
Safety is a core value at UEC, and continued investment in employee training and preparedness helps support the safety of our crews, emergency response partners, and the members we serve.