Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are urging everyone to be aware of the dangers that fire and naked flames can pose to the electricity infrastructure this summer.
This safety warning is being issued in collaboration with the emergency services following an increase in the number of wildfires due to the sustained period of hot weather in the north of Scotland.
On SSEN's distribution network, a recent gorse fire between Portgordon and Buckie meant naked flames came close to SSEN's overhead power lines, with the local Fire and Rescue Service contacting SSEN to isolate power supplies to ensure the safety of the local community and allow the fire service to safely respond to the situation. SSEN's teams attended the area last week to replace damaged equipment caused by the wildfire.
A recent wildfire at Ben Bhraggie, near Golspie, saw SSEN's transmission business support the local fire crews by temporarily de-energising its power lines in the area. The design of SSEN's transmission network meant that power from the affected line was able to be re-routed to a separate part of the infrastructure with no impact to customers, and allowed the fire service teams to go about their duties safely.
Richard Gough, Head of Safety, Health and Environment at SSEN, said:
"The recent hot spell of weather means more and more people are spending time outside, having picnics, lighting barbeques and enjoying the longer days. We want everyone to be aware of their surroundings, and to enjoy their time outside, so please always look out, look up, and be aware of our overhead power lines, especially if this involves lighting a fire or using a barbeque."
"As we've experienced over the past few weeks, wildfires can spread rapidly, particularly in some of our more remote and rural locations in the north of Scotland. Our infrastructure delivers a safe and secure supply of electricity across the north of Scotland, but we may need to de-energise supplies to allow the emergency services to work safely in challenging conditions. I'd urge anyone who sees any potential damage to our network to report this to our teams by calling 105 or sending a photo in from a safe distance using our new Power Track app."
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer John Miller of Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, said:
"We have seen in recent weeks just how large these fires can become - many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by these incidents, which can cause significant environmental and economic damage."
"Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires - as can the lives of people living and working in rural communities."
"As well as engaging with and educating affected communities, we are appealing to people to take great care - it is crucial that people act safely and responsibly in rural environments and follow the countryside code."
"Just one heat source like a campfire ember can cause it to ignite and if the wind changes direction even the smallest fire can spread uncontrollably and devastate entire hillsides."
Many wildfires and outdoor fires involving grass or refuse are started deliberately or are due to careless, reckless or irresponsible behaviour. If you suspect someone of acting suspiciously, recklessly or irresponsibly in the countryside call Scotland Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or call Police Scotland on 101.
To report damage to electricity power lines, substations or equipment, please call the UK-wide single emergency number, 105 or download our Power Track app at ssen.co.uk/PowerTrack.
In a safety emergency, dial 999 and ask for the fire service who will contact SSEN directly.
For more information on safety around power lines and electrical equipment, please visit ssen.co.uk/safety.