National Lineworker Appreciation Day

Snapped poles and tangled power lines over a battered landscape of downed trees are the usual challenges lineworkers face after severe weather strikes – but the COVID-19 pandemic and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s recommended safety guidelines have added new complexities to lineworkers’ already complicated work. Storms that barreled across the Midwest and Southeast this month tested even the most seasoned lineworkers, who adjusted to new social distancing and face mask requirements while working to restore power to nearly 1 million Duke Energy customers – including essential services like hospitals, grocery stores and schools that provide meals. Tomorrow is National Lineworker Appreciation Day – a day set aside each year to honor the men and women who dedicate themselves to the often hazardous work of keeping the lights on. But this year, Duke Energy lineworkers are sharing the spotlight with all essential workers who are keeping the nation safe and functioning during the pandemic. Duke encourages its customers and communities to turn on front lights at 9 o’clock tomorrow night for its “Front lights for Front-Line Workers” initiative. Those who wish to participate are encouraged to use the hashtags #FrontLights4FrontLineWorkers and #ThankALineman on social media. More than 7,800 Duke Energy and contract lineworkers are part of the Duke Energy team. They are responsible for constructing, operating and maintaining equipment and more than 300,000 miles of power lines in Duke Energy’s service territories.