Back to Blog

Injured OPALCO Lineman is Recovering Well

Doctors at Harborview Medical Center are calling our injured Journeyman Lineman Kevin Zoerb the “Miracle Man.” Kevin had a very successful surgery on his hand, which was burned in the accident on September 20th when he came into contact with a high voltage line. The prognosis is good, although he still has challenges ahead. He will have several additional surgeries and remain in the burn center for at least another month. The family has set up a Caring Bridge site (https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/kevinzoerb) to provide updates as they occur and a way to send messages to Kevin and his family.

A “Zoerb Family Fund” has been set up at Islanders Bank to help with expenses. Donations to the Fund can be made through any Islanders Bank branch. The OPALCO Board has committed $3,000 to the fund and would like to invite our members to join us in making donations, in order to meet the family’s needs over the coming months.

A formal investigation of the accident is underway. Safety is OPALCO’s top priority. The Co-op has a strong safety education and training program led by an industry expert, Jeff Myers of Columbia Rural Electric Association. Our safety committee meets monthly to review safety issues and provide training to both outside and inside staff.

 

You may also like...

down tree and power line on Shaw Island

When the Lights Go Out

A little preparation can make all the difference when you lose power Most of us depend on electricity to power nearly every aspect of our daily lives—from heating and lighting … Read more
aerial view of the newly relocated power poles on Jackson Beach on San Juan Island.

Making Way for Salmon

Orcas Power & Light Cooperative relocates poles and lines to enable habitat restoration For years, two essential transmission poles serving power to Orcas Power & Light Cooperative members were on … Read more
eplane

Quiet, Clean, Connected

Transportation in San Juan County shapes the future of the islands San Juan County faces a transportation paradox. Visitors come for the islands’ pristine beauty and tranquility, yet the ways … Read more