MB Hydro cautions farmers after recent incidents

Damage to Manitoba Hydro towers and poles have prompted the crown corporation to issue a seasonal reminder asking producers to be careful.

In a May 9 press release, Hydro stated that incidents in the previous weeks included one which resulted in the loss of a transmission tower on Manitoba Hydro’s Bipole 1 High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission line near Gross Isle.

Other incidents involving distribution poles have occurred in the Russell and Oakville areas.

“While there were no impacts to electrical services due to the HVDC contact, damage to overhead power lines, poles and towers can result in outages affecting service to hospitals, police and fire stations that can impact public safety as well as other customers,” the press release said. “Contact with overhead powerlines also presents a significant electrocution risk to agricultural producers.”

Farmers are reminded to know the height and width of their equipment.

For anything over 4.8 metres (15.7 feet), farmers must apply online for a clearance permit that lasts the growing season.

They are also advised to ensure a distance of at least three metres (10 feet) when driving under a power line.

If producers do contact an overhead powerline, they should not exit their equipment.

“Stay in the equipment or vehicle and call 911 immediately to report the contact,” the press release said. “Emergency personnel will coordinate with Manitoba Hydro so that our crews can respond and make the area safe as quickly as possible.”