Misleading yellow flyers have recently been illegally posted on utility poles throughout Ashland. The design and headlines of these postings could mistakenly lead a reader to think they are issued by the City or a public health authority, which is not true. Presumably private individuals have taken it upon themselves to distribute these so-called “public health warnings”.
This is a fitting time to remind everyone not to hang items on utility poles. We know it can be tempting and seemingly harmless to hang signs, basketball hoops, and other items on the poles, but such practices can result in City citations. Here are some good reasons to avoid the practice:
1. Attachments endanger our employees who climb poles. Punctures in protective equipment, such as fire-resistant clothing, prohibit it from functioning as designed to protect workers. Unseen nails in a pole can dull and damage the climbing equipment worn to climb wood poles.
2. Attachments damage poles. When the treated outer layers of a pole are pierced, moisture, and insects can creep in causing damage, shortening the life of the pole, and increasing maintenance costs.
3. We risk fines. The National Electric Safety Code prohibits these types of unauthorized pole attachments. The Oregon Public Utility Commission can fine the City for violations of the National Electric Safety Code.
Thank you all for helping us maintain our safe and reliable electric system.
