Choose the Right Tree
Trees and other vegetation that grow too close to electrical lines can create shock and fire hazards and cause power outages.
Before beginning landscaping projects this spring, Access Energy Cooperative and Safe Electricity encourage homeowners and businesses to seek help in choosing and planting trees and bushes that will not interfere with their electric supply.
“Trees provide many aesthetic, environmental and economic benefits, including energy-efficient shade and cooling during peak electric usage. But, everyone needs to be aware of the dangers and risks created when trees grow into power lines and the importance of calling their electric cooperative or utility locator service before beginning any landscaping project,” says Don Roach, Director of Operations at Access Energy Cooperative.
Trees conduct electricity and can create a safety hazard if limbs grow too close to electric lines. Power outages or flickers can occur when trees and branches come into contact with overhead lines, and electrical arcing and sparking from a wire to a nearby branch can cause fires.
A much greater concern is the safety risk when children climb trees near power lines. Accidental contact of electric wires with a tree limb or person playing or trimming around the tree can be fatal.
Trees growing near power lines must be pruned to maintain a safe distance from the wires. “If you have trees or other vegetation that appears to be growing into power lines or equipment, contact Access Energy Cooperative.
“Never try to prune them yourself. Utilities have skilled professionals trained to safely prune and trim trees for electric line clearances,” says Roach.
SAFE PLANTING TIPS
- Consider mature height of trees. Do not plant any tree that can grow to 25 feet tall near overhead power lines. A mature height of less than 15 feet is recommended.
- Do not plant trees and bushes near underground utility services. Roots can grow and interfere with underground pipes, cables and wires. Future repairs to these facilities also could damage the health and beauty of nearby plants and trees.
- Keep areas around electric meters, transformers or other electrical equipment free of any vegetation that could limit utility service access.
- At least 48 hours before digging, call Iowa One Call at (800) 292-8989 so that the location of underground utilities can be marked to prevent accidental contact, damage and injuries. Visit www.iowaonecall.com for more information.