March 5, 2026
Warmer weather brings blooming flowers, longer days and plenty of projects around the house and yard. As residents clean up flower beds, tackle home improvements and prepare for storm season, Starkville Utilities encourages customers to put safety first every step of the way.
“Spring is a season of fresh starts,” said Edward Kemp, general manager of Starkville Utilities. “It’s also a time when we see more outdoor activity — and that can increase the risk of electrical accidents. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping families safe.”
Before climbing a ladder, trimming limbs or lifting long tools, take a moment to look up and look around. Always maintain at least 10 feet of clearance from overhead power lines. If you see a downed line, stay away and report it immediately to Starkville Utilities. Even without direct contact, electricity can travel through the ground or arc to nearby objects.
Planning to prune trees near utility lines? Leave that job to licensed professionals trained to work safely around energized equipment.
Spring projects often involve digging — installing a fence, planting trees, building a deck or even setting a new mailbox. Before breaking ground, call 811 at least three business days in advance. Professional locators will mark underground utility lines to prevent dangerous and costly damage.
Now is also a good time to inspect outdoor outlets, extension cords and power tools:
Taking a few extra minutes to inspect equipment can prevent shocks, fires and unexpected interruptions.
Spring storms can develop quickly. Secure ladders on stable ground, wear non-slip shoes and have someone nearby when working at heights. Keep an emergency kit stocked with flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, water and essential items in case severe weather causes outages.
For additional seasonal safety resources, visit Starkville Utilities’ website, along with information from Safe Electricity and the Electrical Safety Foundation International.
This spring, enjoy the sunshine — and make safety part of every project.
“As we head into a busy season, we want every family to enjoy the warmer weather with confidence,” Kemp added. “Staying aware of your surroundings and taking simple precautions can make all the difference in preventing accidents and keeping our community safe.”
Starkville Utilities is a municipally owned and operated electric and water utility, serving more than 14,000 residences, businesses and industries in Starkville as well as the state’s largest institution of higher learning, Mississippi State University.