ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – April 18 is National Lineman Appreciation Day. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a day off for those who work on the lines.
The City of Escanaba Electric Department has a team of linemen who keep the lights on by maintaining power lines, trimming trees, and replacing transformers and utility poles.
Although their work may often go unnoticed by most, Electric Utility Director Gerald Pirkola says it is hard work. During storms like the one that hit much of the U.P. in early April, he says linemen put in long hours to keep the power flowing.
“We had some linemen working pretty much all night,” said Pirkola. “They’re dedicated to their work, and that’s something that we take for granted. Every day, we flip the light switch on and the lights come on. When it’s not there, we miss it, so it’s important to us that we restore power as soon as possible.”
Before getting to work on Thursday, the City of Escanaba linemen enjoyed a breakfast in their honor to kick off Lineman Appreciation Day.
Pirkola reminds Escanaba residents that while it is rare for a power line to come down, it can be dangerous if it happens. He advises anyone who sees a fallen line to stay away, call 9-1-1, and wait for linemen to respond.
Click here for more on how the Electric Department responded to widespread power outages earlier this month.
