Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) and Energex are urging property owners to take extra caution when burning for hazard reduction near electricity assets.
Assistant Commissioner for the Rural Fire Service, John Bolger said taking precautions before and during hazard reduction burns could significantly minimise the risk of damaging property and electricity infrastructure.
“I urge landholders to be aware of their surrounds and remain vigilant to ensure yourself, your family and your property are kept safe while conducting any bushfire mitigation work,” Assistant Commissioner Bolger said.
“To minimise the chances of fire damaging power-poles and property, I would encourage property owners to trim or clear any long grass, foliage and rubbish within a three-metre radius of their electricity infrastructure and remain with any controlled burns they carry out,” he said.
Assistant Commissioner Bolger said if the relevant Local Authority was not currently drought declared, dampening the cleared three-metre radius with water could also reduce the chances of accidental damage to property.
“It is important to note that it is illegal to leave any controlled burn unattended, and permits must be obtained from your local Fire Warden before you light up,” he said.
Area Manager for Energex, Matt Hilder said fire damage to power poles presented a number of safety issues for the immediate area around them as well as the wider community.
“If a hazard reduction burn gets out of control and brings a power pole down, it can obviously cause injuries or worse if it falls on someone,” Mr Hilder said.
“However, it’s the fallen power lines that can also cause a very serious safety issue to people and livestock in a much broader area,” he said.
