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...

sunset solar

What’s next for renewable energy in San Juan County: Part 3 of 3

The Bailer Hill Microgrid project on San Juan Island is a future Community Solar and battery storage site. In “Part 1: Why Local, Renewable Power Generation,” OPALCO outlined the critical point … Read more
wildfire orcas

Supporting California and Preparing Locally

The OPALCO team has been watching the devastation that Southern California is experiencing with the latest bout of wildfires. Our hearts go out to the individuals, families, and businesses that … Read more
bailerhill

Local Power Generation: Why the Bailer Hill Microgrid: Part 2 of 3

The Bailer Hill Microgrid project on San Juan Island is a future Community Solar and battery storage site. Community Solar is a local solution to offset expensive mainland power and offer … Read more