Essential Energy acting North Coast regional manager Ross Berry said landowners are responsible for obtaining the correct permits before burning.

“Ensure that paddock fires are monitored and controlled to prevent potential damage to Essential Energy’s network assets,” Mr Berry said.

“Our workers may attend the site of a proposed burn-off to review the condition of assets such as power poles and power lines.”

Property owners could be held responsible for the cost of any damage to the electrical network cause by burning activities.

Farmers are advised to establish an exclusion zone of at least three metres, clear vegetation around the base of the poles before burning, conduct the activity on low fire danger days and stay alert to changing weather conditions.

“Ensure you have sufficient water and firefighting equipment at hand in case a burn gets out of control,” Mr Berry said.

Farmers are also reminded to check for network damage afterwards and be alert to signs of smoke or ash near power poles as they can smoulder for hours before catching alight.

“If an electrical asset is damaged by a burn activity, contact Essential Energy immediately to isolate the power supply and remain at least eight metres aware from fallen powerlines,” Mr Berry said.

Free electrical safety fact sheets and information can be viewed at www.essentialenergy.com.au/agribusiness.