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Course Outline

Heavy concentrations of smoke can conduct electricity from overhead electrical lines and high voltage transmission lines. Because smoke contains carbon particles and water vapor, an electrical discharge from the line to the ground can occur. To avoid the danger of electrical discharges from power lines, light backing fires parallel to the lines. Let the fire back under the wires in smaller, narrower fronts and do not stand in smoke that is passing through or under lines. Remove fuel from under lines and around poles prior to burning if possible.

A picture showing a grass fire burning under a powerline.

Courtesy of MDC

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