The rules of stubble burning
Release Date: 17 March 2008
Western Power is urging farmers to exercise caution when stubble burning near power poles to keep themselves safe, avoid costly damage to the electricity network and avoid power interruptions.
Western Power’s bushfire strategist, Tony Baird said there are some basic steps to follow when stubble burning to ensure power poles are not damaged.
“The first step is preparation. Farmers should clear vegetation at least a metre and a half from around the base of poles before stubble burning commences. This reduces the risk of fire spreading to the poles. Wind-rows should not be raked below powerlines or near poles.
“As an extra precaution, it is also a good idea to wet poles thoroughly before starting any stubble burning,” Mr Baird said.
“Farmers should ensure their mobile fire units are in good working order and on hand should the stubble fire get out of control or move onto or near power poles.”
Mr Baird said farmers needed to monitor the stubble burning carefully.
“Farmers need to be aware that monitoring is a very important part of stubble burning. They need to monitor poles during and after the burn as embers can catch and burn slowly on poles and are not always obvious.
“Embers can lodge in gaps between poles and steel reinforcements and farmers should pay particular attention to these areas,” Mr Baird said.
Mr Baird said being safety conscious when stubble burning was important for a number of reasons.
“Fire safety is important during stubble burning because damaging a pole is a potential safety risk, can cause power interruptions and is an unnecessary expense for farmers.”
Western Power encourages farmers to call 13 13 51 if they damage a pole.
Contact your shire for details on fire restrictions.
Contact us
If you have any questions regarding this media release please email us: media@westernpower.com.au
