Distribution Line Fires

Burning utility poles may cause downed power lines. Follow these precautions:

• Never attempt to apply any extinguishing agent to energized equipment. Whether that agent is a dry chemical, carbon dioxide or water in a 30-degree fog spray at 100 psi, it can cause an arc flash. Equipment must be de-energized before you can safely attempt to put out the fire.
• Only attempt to protect exposures that are not in contact with the energized equipment.
• Do not use water around a utility pole unless the incident commander directs you to do so.
• If transformers are burning, be alert for explosions, toxic-smoke hazards and oil releases. Even when the fire is put out, there may still be oil present and power lines may still be energized.
• Create a safety perimeter, and keep bystanders at least 100 feet away. Maintain this perimeter until utility personnel confirms that the lines are de-energized and oil cleanup is complete.