Tallahassee, Fla. — The Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) and Florida Municipal Power Agency (FMPA) today recognize Florida Lineworker Appreciation Day – a day to show gratitude to the people who risk their lives daily to ensure reliable delivery of electricity throughout the Sunshine State.

Florida Lineworker Appreciation Day was created by the Florida House of Representatives in 2012 and was designated in memory of Marc Moore, a lineworker for Lakeland Electric, who died while on the job in 2002. Electric lineworkers perform one of the most hazardous jobs in the U.S., combining high-voltage electricity, working at heights, and exposure to extreme weather.

“Lineworkers answer the call every day to keep our communities powered, connected and moving forward,” said Jacob Williams, FMPA general manager and CEO. “Their work is difficult, dangerous, and often performed under the most challenging conditions, yet they are there when their communities need them most. We are grateful for their courage, skill and unwavering commitment to serving the people who depend on them.”

Both FMEA and FMPA offer programming focused on lineworker safety. FMPA offers a Lineworker Safety Program, regional safety training sessions and a safety certification program, while FMEA hosts regular Safety & Training Committee roundtables, recognizes utility safety efforts through its annual Safety Awards, and for 25 years, one of FMEA’s signature events – the Florida Lineman Competition – has centered on safety. Competitors take on various challenges, including a simulation of rescuing an injured lineworker, earning points for completing the tasks as quickly as possible and losing points if safety standards and proper work practices are not followed.

“Safety is, and always has been, a core focus of FMEA and is the foundation of the Florida Lineman Competition – just as it is in the daily work of lineworkers. While the atmosphere is energetic and competition is fierce, there is an unwavering commitment to doing every task the right way and in compliance with safety standards,” said Amy Zubaly, FMEA Executive Director. “The message is clear: whether in competition or in the field, there is no substitute for doing the job safely.”

There are more than 6,700 lineworkers in Florida and nearly 1,000 of those are public power lineworkers who serve communities large and small throughout Florida.