During the next few months, many Queensland property owners will be conducting hazard reduction burns to reduce the fuel load to minimise the risk to their properties ahead of fire season.

Ergon Energy Group Leader Craig Maddy agrees the practice is a great way to reduce the risk of uncontrollable wildfire when its done right.

“In my roles, both with Ergon Energy and also as a volunteer rural firefighter I get to see a lot of examples where fire and electrical assets don’t mix,” Mr Maddy said.

“In just the last few weeks Ergon has had to reduce a dozen poles that have been damaged or burnt to the ground due to hazard reduction burns where property owners have not taken appropriate measures to protect them.

“This is not just very expensive to repair but can also cut power to entire districts for extended periods while repairs are undertaken.”

Mr Maddy said burned power poles can also be a significant safety issue for property owners and the wider community.

“It is not just the obvious damage to the poles but also the potential for hidden dangers,” he said.

“Even a pole that’s only partially burnt is significantly weakened can snap during high winds or storm activity without warning.”

This article appeared in On Our Selection News, 22 September 2022.