Extra care urged as hazard reduction burns ramp up near power lines

General Manager Field Delivery for Energex and Ergon Trevor Bath said burn‑offs getting too close to electricity infrastructure can have serious consequences.

“Unfortunately, in some hazard reduction burn periods, we’ve seen more than a dozen power poles burnt down after burns escaped control,” Mr Bath said.

“In some cases, entire communities lost power when poles and powerlines came down.

“Beyond the inconvenience, fallen powerlines are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injury or even death to people and livestock.

“Even poles that are only partly burnt are a major risk. They may look fine but can be significantly weakened and collapse later in strong winds or storms, without warning.

“That’s why we’re asking landholders to clear all vegetation within at least five metres of the base of any power pole before lighting a fire.”

Rural Fire Service Queensland Chief Officer Kaylene Jones said managing bushfire risk was a shared responsibility and landowners needed to take important considerations before conducting hazard reduction burns.

“Weather conditions can strongly impact fire behaviour, which is why anyone planning a hazard reduction burn must monitor the forecast and Fire Danger Rating (FDR) for their area,” she said.

“Landowners can take simple steps like clearing long grass, shrubs and debris from around electricity infrastructure on their property to reduce damage.

“Anyone planning to conduct a burn larger than two metres in any direction must obtain a Permit to Light Fire through their local Fire Warden.

“The burn must also be monitored at all times to ensure the fire doesn’t escape and turn into a large-scale grassfire.”

In an emergency, always dial Triple Zero (000).

ENDS