July 19, 2023
Ergon Energy and firefighters are urging property owners to take extra precautions around the power network when they are conducting hazard reduction burns.
“More than a dozen power poles were brought down by landowners’ burns getting out of control last year,” Ergon spokesperson Craig Maddy said.
In some cases, power was cut to entire communities.
“In addition to the inconvenience of widespread power disruptions, fallen powerlines can cause serious injury or even death to people and livestock that come into contact with them,” Mr Maddy said.
“Just as troubling is a power pole that’s only partially burnt because it will be significantly weakened and potentially snap during high winds or storm activity without warning.
“So we’re asking any landowners who are about to burn to ensure vegetation is cleared within a five metre radius of the base of a pole.”
Rural Fire Service Acting Assistant Commissioner Peter Hollier encouraged property owners to trim or clear any long grass, foliage and rubbish around their electricity infrastructure, and suggested dampening down the area around poles.
“Remember, you will need to apply for a free permit from your local fire warden before lighting a fire larger than two metres in any direction,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Hollier said.
