As the ‘eleventh night’ draws close NIE issues safety appeal to builders

A strong safety warning has been issued by NIE to local communities to build bonfires a safe distance away from overhead lines and substations.

An NIE spokesperson said it followed reports of bonfires being erected under or close to high voltage electricity lines.

“This is a very dangerous practice as the smoke and heat from bonfires can cause electrical arcing and sparking, and in some cases lines may be brought down by the fire,” the spokesperson said.

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“Bonfire debris and 
flames anywhere near power lines and electricity substations are a serious risk to 
everyone’s safety and wellbeing.

“We appeal to people to take extra care.

“Bonfires also need to be kept clear of hidden hazards, such as trees which might have electricity lines running close to them.

“Electricity can jump gaps so you don’t need to come into direct contact with live equipment to risk electrocution,” he said.