Five Minutes to Save a Life

June 8, 2025

Union Power’s linemen recently completed their
annual Pole Top Rescue drill, fulfilling important
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) safety requirements. This critical training
exercise sharpens essential emergency response skills
that could save lives in the field.

During the high-stakes drill, our linemen face a
simulated crisis: a colleague injured while working
atop a power pole. The responding lineman must act
decisively under pressure. First, the responder makes
an emergency radio call, suits up in climbing gear, and
scales the pole. Once the “injured” lineman is secured
with a rope system and safely lowered to the ground,
CPR and first aid are performed—all within five minutes.
“It’s not about passing a test; it’s about making sure
everyone on our team goes home at night. That’s what
makes this drill so important to us all,” said Crew
Supervisor Travis Greenly.

The training recognizes the inherent dangers linemen
face daily. While they work to keep our lights on, they
must remain vigilant about their own safety. Our
linemen undergo extensive safety training throughout
the year, ensuring they have both the knowledge and
confidence to handle any situation.

This year, Crew Supervisor Colton Helms completed
the drill the quickest, followed by Crew Supervisor Josh
Morrison, and Journeyman Derek Mesimer.

Their impressive times demonstrate not just technical
skill, but a deep commitment to protecting their fellow
crew members in any circumstance.