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...

scholars

2026 Youth Rally Scholars

Nourdine Jensen Cooperative Youth Scholarship Program awards pave the way for local students Every year in July, a group of students from San Juan County represent OPALCO at the ICUA … Read more
811

Call 811 Before You Dig

Outdoor and yard project season is upon us! While summertime in the San Juan Islands is a perfect time to get out and enjoy the sights and sounds of the … Read more
brant bucket

Wired for the Work

OPALCO Lineworker completes four-year apprenticeship Brant Akers moved to Orcas Island from Salem, Oregon in 2015 with his wife. Like many islanders, they fell in love with the island while … Read more