Alabama Power's Safe-T-Zone team up with UWA to bring electrical safety demonstrations to the Black Belt

Alabama Power recently brought its Safe-T-Zone high-voltage safety program to the University of West Alabama (UWA), equipping roughly 75 first responders from the Black Belt region with the knowledge to identify electrical hazards and safely manage dangerous, real-life emergencies before line crews arrive.

Safety demonstrations were performed on a custom-built trailer that generates 14,400 volts of electricity to stage safety demonstrations, utilizing both primary and secondary voltage to show the risks of overhead and underground power lines.

UWA Police Chief Josette White for the University of West Alabama campus requested safety refresher demonstrations for her task force. Attendees included first responders from law enforcement agencies, paramedics, firefighters and volunteer firefighters from Marengo, Sumter, Greene, Pickens and Fayette counties.

Topics included how to handle substation fires, downed power lines, generator back feed, vehicles in contact with power lines and the consequences of pulling a meter during a house fire. Alabama Power’s public safety awareness program manager, Miranda Hurst, and communications specialist Yvonne Taunton, led two 45-minute safety presentations.

Livingston’s Mayor Bird Dial was in attendance among several members of his administration.

“The safety program was such a great opportunity for myself and my employees,” Dial said. “I am very thankful we took the time to attend. I really appreciate Alabama Power and everything they do for us.”

“At UWA, we are proud to support Alabama Power’s Safe-T-Zone training by providing a place where first responders from across our region can strengthen the skills that help keep their communities safe,” UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch said. “Strategic partnerships like this reflect our vision for the University as a catalyst for education, workforce development and regional progress. By working alongside organizations that share our commitment to service and learning, we are helping strengthen the Black Belt through meaningful educational experiences that extend well beyond the traditional classroom.”

“This collaboration between UWA and Alabama Power is a true investment in the Black Belt Region, specifically in our people who go above and beyond often with limited resources to help serve and protect our communities,” Fritch added. “Partnering with Alabama Power ensures that we are providing superior quality training to help protect and equip our local first responders and frontline service employees, and we are grateful to Mr. Brown for his shared vision for strengthening the Black Belt through collaboration between the two organizations.”

For additional information about Safe-T-Zone or to find out when it’s being presented in your community, contact Public Safety Awareness at 800-806-SAFE (7233) or email safety@alabamapower.com.