Hazard reduction burns

Planned burns play an important role in reducing bushfire risk and supporting land management but burning near electrical infrastructure introduces additional risks. 

Careful planning and coordination helps keep crews safe and ensures reliable power for the community.

Fire and electricity infrastructure don’t mix well. Fire, heat and smoke from planned burns can impact electricity infrastructure including damage to power poles and overhead lines, and interfere with electrical equipment. In some cases, this can lead to power outages or failure of assets.

Taking the right precautions helps reduce these risks and keeps both crews and the community safe.

Preparing for a hazard reduction burn

Managing risk during a planned burn requires careful attention at every stage. The steps you take before, during and after the burn all play a role in keeping people safe and protecting nearby electrical infrastructure.

  • Obtain all required permits and approvals
  • Notify Powercor well in advance of any planned burn near the electricity network
  • Provide burn location, timing and scope where possible
  • Identify nearby electrical assets, including:
    • Power poles
    • Overhead powerlines
    • Transformers and ground-mounted equipment
    • Stay wires and support structures
  • Establish exclusion zones:
    • Minimum 8 metres around poles
    • Avoid burning directly under powerlines
  • Clear vegetation from around poles and assets prior to ignition
  • Conduct burns on low fire danger days
  • Monitor weather conditions closely, especially wind changes
  • Minimise smoke exposure to powerlines where possible
  • Keep firefighting equipment and water readily available
  • Ensure all personnel understand safe approach distances to electrical assets
  • Maintain control lines and actively manage the burn at all times
  • Inspect all nearby electrical assets for signs of damage
  • Look for:
    • Smouldering or burning poles
    • Charring or structural damage
    • Leaning or instability
  • Be aware that poles can smoulder for hours before igniting
  • Continue monitoring the area after the burn is complete

If something goes wrong

If a power pole, line or other electrical asset is damaged or impacted, keep well clear. Always stay at least 10 metres away from powerlines or damaged equipment.

Contact Powercor immediately on 13 24 12 so the area can be made safe.

If the situation is life-threatening, call 000.

Related information

Bushfire mitigation

Our bushfire mitigation efforts involve vegetation clearances, asset inspection and maintenance programs, network safety and PELs.

Fire safety

Fires, including bushfires, can damage and destroy vital community infrastructure such as the electricity network.

High heat safety

Extreme heat or heat waves can place significant stress on the electricity network as more people use appliances like air conditioners to keep cool.