Trees cause the most damage so get set 4 the wet

19 Dec 2008

With the prediction of earlier and more frequent storms, high winds and possibly cyclones in the Top End, Power and Water is urging residents to look around their properties and ‘get set for the wet’.

One of the most important things they can do is to check that trees are not too close to, or touching, powerlines. During storms and heavy downpours, branches coming down onto powerlines are one of the most common reasons for power outages.

Power and Water’s Bertram Birk, General Manager, Power Networks, said ‘Growth rates on many plants can be four times higher here than in cooler climates and we know that trees and palms cause a quarter of all power outages in the Top End.

‘It’s essential to have a three metre clearance because in stormy weather, not only do trees get blown around but the power lines also swing about.’

Power and Water has a year round tree trimming program to clear the vegetation around powerlines in road reserves - this includes trees that may come from private property and intrude into the safe clearance distance of the power line on the road reserve.

The best trees or shrubs are those with a mature height of no more than 3m. Native species are the most appropriate and local councils or nurseries can advise suitable species. Ideally, palms should be planted at least 5m away from powerlines.

If residents do experience a power outage following a storm, they should check if any branches have fallen onto power lines in or around their property, check to see if their neighbours have power, wait 10 minutes and then call 1800 245 092 – chances are that crews are on their way. Residents should never touch fallen powerlines.

Residents are advised not to trim trees around power lines themselves but call Power and Water for safety advice on1800 245 092. If necessary, we can arrange to have the line de-energised or temporarily removed to ensure your safety.