South Carolina electric cooperative members may recognize some familiar faces in a new Touchstone Energy television ad now airing across the nation.
Filmed in Bamberg last December, the 30-second commercial “On the Safe Side” features Edisto Electric Cooperative linemen in the starring roles. The spot shows a cooperative line crew arriving at the scene of a downed power line, donning proper safety gear and directing curious children away from danger.
The ad is part of Touchstone Energy’s combined 2015 safety campaign, which also includes a second television spot, “No Accidents,” filmed near Charleston with the help of Berkeley Electric Cooperative, as well as radio messages, printed materials, digital ads and stock images featuring Santee Electric Cooperative linemen.
During the shoot for “On the Safe Side,” Edisto linemen Aaron Peagler, Jason Padgett and Zach Wimberly did more than act the part. They advised the production company on the safety gear and procedures they use every day. Producer Blaine Deutsch says it was vital to work with real crews in order to convey an authentic safety message.
“They’re the professionals on the set. When we’re working with linemen, they’re instructing us,” he says. “We don’t want anyone to look at what we’re doing and say, ‘That’s not right.’”
For Ruben Musca, creative director at Touchstone Energy, shooting the safety campaign in South Carolina was an easy choice.
“It’s an absolutely beautiful state, there are a lot of good places to shoot and the weather is really nice,” he says. “We’ve worked closely with South Carolina electric cooperatives before, and we’ve always had good luck.”
On the Safe Side
This national Touchstone Energy Cooperatives commercial was filmed in Bamberg, South Carolina, and features linemen from Edisto Electric Cooperative.
No Accidents
This national electrical safety commercial from Touchstone Energy was filmed near Charleston, South Carolina. Thanks to the folks at Berkeley Electric Cooperative for helping make this commercial possible.
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Safety tips – Download a free brochure filled with safety tips and take the Touchstone Energy electrical safety quiz at TogetherWeSave.com.