Advice On How To Deal WIth Trees Close To Power LinesWe can all guess how dangerous a tree touching or falling on a power line can be, but how much merit is there to this fear? What are the possible repercussions of trees being near power lines? What should you do if you think you see something that could be dangerous? We'll discuss below to help guide you in this uncertain topic.
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High-voltage power lines carry electricity high above the ground. But like water, electricity will use the path of least resistance to the ground, even using nearby objects to accelerate this. Even though we have harnessed the power of electricity, it can still be unpredictable like lightning. It can ground itself through jumping (arcing) to any tall tree nearby.
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iS THERE A BRANCH TOUCHING A HIGH VOLTAGE LINE?
There is a difference between touching and brushing, where touching would indicate that the tree has grown into the area that the power line is coming through. Brushing can be something that happens on a windy day, where the tree makes brief contact with the power line, but doesn't come to rest on it after its done moving. Should a tree only be brushing up against the lines, there isn't cause for concern immediately, but you should still monitor as the circumstances can change very easily.
Some keys points to keep in mind when you notice a tree is touching the lines.
Some keys points to keep in mind when you notice a tree is touching the lines.
- Don't climb or allow anyone to climb the tree. Getting close or even potentially touching the power line without proper protective equipment and protocols can lead to electrocution and possible death.
- Depending on voltage and length of time touching, a branch can become hot enough to combust. Although uncommon, this reason is still enough to make sure to notify the proper channels when you notice a branch has grown in to touch a power line.
The importance of clearance
SaskPower and all tree professionals know about the importance of clearances between power lines and other objects. This can include accounting for line sag, which can be from the hot summer months, or even from heavy electrical loads heating up the line with friction. This becomes important when dealing with trees in the winter time, as a safe distance in the cold often will not suffice in the warmer months.
Care must be taken when dealing with tall trees near power lines. They can fall during a storm from heavy winds, or can break from the weight of heavy snow in the winter. There are over 1000 power outages in Saskatoon every year due to tree falling or touching power lines.
Care must be taken when dealing with tall trees near power lines. They can fall during a storm from heavy winds, or can break from the weight of heavy snow in the winter. There are over 1000 power outages in Saskatoon every year due to tree falling or touching power lines.
What to do if you notice this hazard
SaskPower has a great program which is fast and convenient. If you notice this potential fire hazard in your area, simply go to their website, add your location with a photo or two, and give any additional comments you deem necessary and they will come and asses/prune/remove as they see fit, for free!
If for some reason you aren't able to reach the city services, we would be happy to help with this as well. We have been dealing with trees near power lines for many years, and we have all the equipment and experience necessary to safely assist in the removal of any hazard, no matter what the size. For any questions, or to get a quote on any type of tree service, give us a call today!
If for some reason you aren't able to reach the city services, we would be happy to help with this as well. We have been dealing with trees near power lines for many years, and we have all the equipment and experience necessary to safely assist in the removal of any hazard, no matter what the size. For any questions, or to get a quote on any type of tree service, give us a call today!