Uncontrolled Burning
“Uncontrolled fields burning may have unexpected results.”
Concerns
Uncontrolled Burning Results In:
- Structure loss
- Arcing from Conductor to Conductor — extreme heat causes air surrounding high voltage lines to lose insulation values, allowing electricity to flash or arc between conductors and interrupt service to local and/or regional areas.
Power Interruptions Affect:
- 911 Services
- Public Water Wells
- Nursing Homes
- Water Treatment Plants
- Police Services
- Fire Department
- Critical Care Units
- Hospitals & Operating Rooms
- Loss of power to Life Support Equipment
- Loss of power to Medical Equipment
- Industrial Production
- Inventory Reduction and Lost Wages
- Damaged Equipment or Products
- Possible Legal Liability
Solutions
Prepare for Safe and Controlled Burning:
- Temperatures less than 90° F
- Relative humidity greater than 30%
- Surface wind 3 to 5 MPH (max- gusting to 10 MPH)
Burning Near Power Lines:
- Firebreaks and Tillage – 60 feet from center-line on wooden structures
- Backfires – Reduce heat emission near power lines and protect structures
Did you know? The cost to replace a wooden pole averages $2,700. Woodruff Electric is a not-for-profit organization, owned and operated by its members. Therefore, every time a pole is burned, that costs – You… the member!