At The Ulysses News, we take pride in sharing stories that lift our community—moments of warmth, service, celebration, and neighborly spirit. Sadly, this week we must share a story none of us ever want to write. Our hearts are with all who were affected by the tragic electrical accident that occurred last week in Ulysses, an event that ended in heartbreak for several families and touched the entire community.
On Saturday November 22nd, three individuals suffered electrical injuries while performing repair work from a man lift at a church located at 831 North College Street. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m., according to a press release issued by Pioneer Electric. Emergency responders from the Ulysses Police Department, Ulysses EMS, and Pioneer Electric quickly arrived at the scene, and all three individuals were transported to Bob Wilson Memorial Hospital.
The individuals involved were members of the public, not employees of Pioneer Electric. At this time, official statements regarding their conditions or identities remain with local authorities. Pioneer Electric stated, “We extend our prayers and well wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured,” and emphasized that it is too early to speculate on the cause of the incident. A full investigation will determine what went wrong.
As a community, we offer our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers to those impacted.
A Time to Reflect — and a Time to Educate
In the wake of this tragedy, it becomes even more important to remember that electricity is one of the most powerful and unforgiving forces we encounter in our everyday world. While underground utilities have the well-known 811 Call Before You Dig safety system, there is no equivalent number to warn us about hazards above the ground. Overhead lines, service drops, and hidden energized components often go unnoticed—even by experienced workers.
Because of this, Pioneer Electric and other local organizations remain invaluable educational resources. They welcome questions, offer demonstrations, provide safety materials, and regularly host training opportunities for the public, businesses, and contractors. These efforts save lives.
Electrical Safety: What Everyone Should Know
Preventing Electrical Shock
● Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines.
● Treat every line as energized, no matter what.
● Before using ladders, lifts, poles, or long tools outdoors, look up and scan the work area.
● Use non-conductive ladders (fiberglass) whenever possible.
● Never attempt electrical repairs without proper training and equipment.
● When in doubt, call your local electric cooperative for guidance—they want to help.
If YOU Are Being Shocked
● Try to pull away if possible—muscles may lock, but even a shift in body position can break contact.
● If you can, turn off the source (breaker, switch) without touching the victim or the energized object.
● Call 911 immediately.
● Seek medical attention even if you believe the shock was minor—internal injuries can occur.
If You SEE Someone Being Shocked
● Do NOT touch them.
● Call 911 immediately.
● Shut off the power source if it is safe to do so.
● If you must intervene, use a dry, non-conductive object (wooden broom handle, plastic tool) to push the person away from contact—but only if the situation does not put you at risk.
A Message for Our Community
Tragedies remind us how precious—and fragile—life truly is. When it comes to electricity, the dangers often lie above, unseen or forgotten until it's too late. Awareness, caution, and education are our first lines of defense.
We are fortunate to have invaluable community resources like Pioneer Electric, who stand ready to help educate the public and prevent future accidents. Their expertise, along with the vigilance of our community, can make the difference between life and catastrophe.
As we reflect on the events of last week, let us hold close a message worth remembering:
“You only get one life—and electricity gives you no second chances.”
May we honor those affected by learning, by staying cautious, and by looking out for one another.
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