ACTEWAGL is reminding us that with Canberra coming out of the wettest August since 2004, there has been increased vegetation growth around the city.

ActewAGL Manager Works Delivery, Clinton McAlister, says it’s important to monitor all trees and shrubs on your property and keep them at least 1.5 metres away from powerlines. These clearances also apply to vegetation around the base of poles, meters, substations and mini pillars.

Trees touching powerlines can create blackouts, fires and the risk of electric shock. In windy weather trees can fall and bring down live electrical wires, creating a dangerous safety hazard and interrupting your power supply.

“With the above average rainfall our teams have noticed a large increase in vegetation growth around the city,” Clinton said.

“It’s important to remember that the faster trees grow, the more risk there is of them being too close to powerlines.

“Both landowners and occupiers are responsible for keeping a clearance of 1.5 metres around powerlines. Ensuring this clearance is maintained will help the ACT to continue to have the fewest electricity blackouts in Australia.”

ActewAGL is asking the community to check two things on their property.

1. That trees are 1.5 metres clear of powerlines. If they are already too close, contact an ActewAGL accredited tree surgeon.
2. That there is 1.5 metres clearance in all directions around the base of poles, meters, substations and mini pillars.

Information brochures and a list of ActewAGL accredited tree surgeons are available on the ActewAGL website at actewagl.com.au/safety