Western Power Battles to Tame Pole-Top Fires
Western Australia is currently facing a rising crisis due to a series of pole-top fires. These fires occur when light rain and dust gather on power pole insulators, leading to arcing and igniting nearby structures. Emergency responders are often delayed, as they must wait for Western Power to confirm power isolation in the affected area.
Challenges Faced by Volunteer Firefighters
The burden on volunteer firefighters has become increasingly severe, particularly in the Gingin shire. Linda Balcombe, the shire’s president, expressed her concerns over the growing number of pole-top fire incidents. In February alone, local firefighting crews responded to around 12 separate fires.
Balcombe noted the community’s frustrations, stating that volunteers often have the exhausting task of monitoring these fires for extended periods.
Growing Pressure on Resources
- Volunteer resources are stretched thin during the bushfire season.
- Some volunteers are considering leaving their roles due to increased demands.
- Concerns have been raised about Western Power’s reliance on these committed individuals.
Matt Fanning, CEO of Mingenew shire, spoke at a recent Bushfire Awareness Committee meeting. He highlighted the growing tension between the rising demands of fire response and the daily responsibilities of volunteers, warning that this pressure could lead to a decline in active volunteer numbers.
The Community’s Call for Action
Evan Lawrence, chief bushfire control officer in Gingin, pointed out the fatigue faced by volunteers. He recounted events where one volunteer monitored a fire for nearly six hours, while another fire started nearby due to a separate pole-top incident. His observations underscore the critical state of volunteer resources.
Karen Chappel, president of the WA Local Government Association, acknowledged the significant challenges local governments and firefighting brigades encounter. She called for collaborative efforts to alleviate the burdens on volunteers, emphasizing the need for improved resource allocation to Western Power to enhance prevention and response capabilities.
Western Power’s Standpoint
A spokesperson from Western Power responded to the situation, recognizing the challenges presented by the extensive rural distribution network in the region, which can span over 100 kilometers. They noted that difficult terrain makes timely responses challenging.
Despite these challenges, Western Power affirmed its commitment to supporting volunteer brigades. The company is also actively researching new technologies and monitoring weather conditions to enhance measures against pole-top fires.
A Path Forward
The ongoing challenge of pole-top fires requires immediate action from Western Power. Prioritizing enhanced resource allocation and fostering effective communication between community leaders and the utility company will be essential. These steps are crucial for safeguarding public safety and bolstering volunteer firefighting efforts.
