At Gallatin Department of Electricity, safety isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live every day. It’s built into every meeting, every training, and every job we do in the field. And during National Electrical Safety Month this May, we want to highlight not just what we do to keep our team safe, but also what you can do to protect yourself and your family around electricity.
As GDE General Manager Mark Kimball often says, “Safety—it’s personal.” That mindset drives everything we do. Because in this line of work, if you don’t take safety seriously yourself, it’s not just your well-being on the line—it’s your coworkers’, your neighbors’, and your community’s.
Safety Starts with Us
From the front office to our line crews in the field, everyone at GDE is committed to staying safe—and keeping each other safe. We hold regular safety meetings, follow strict PPE (personal protective equipment) protocols, and work closely with professional organizations to stay up to date on best practices and training.
To recognize the dedication of our team, we offer safety incentives twice a year. It’s one of the ways we show appreciation for the hard work and careful attention that goes into making sure every job is done safely and correctly.
And it’s working. We recently celebrated nine years without a lost-time accident. While we’ve had a few minor incidents that required reporting to OSHA, we haven’t had a single accident that’s taken an employee off the job. That’s an incredible accomplishment—and a direct reflection of the culture of care and responsibility that runs throughout our organization.
Safety Tips for Our Community
Of course, safety doesn’t stop at our doors. As your local electric utility, part of our mission is to help you stay safe around electricity at home and in your neighborhood. So this month, we’re sharing a few reminders:
- Never fly kites or drones near power lines. If something gets stuck, don’t try to retrieve it—call us instead.
- Keep ladders and tools away from overhead wires. Whether you’re cleaning gutters or hanging decorations, always look up before you start.
- Stay away from downed power lines. Even if they look harmless, always treat them as energized. Keep your distance and call GDE immediately.
Safety Is Who We Are
At GDE, safety isn’t a checklist—it’s a core value. It’s woven into our mission and reflected in every decision we make. We’re proud of the work our employees do every day to keep the power flowing safely, and even prouder of the way they look out for one another while they do it.
As we honor National Electrical Safety Month, we encourage everyone in the Gallatin community to make safety personal—just like we do.
Stay safe out there. We’ve got your back.