An incident in Mayfield Twp. highlights the importance of caution when dealing with downed power lines

A truck driver recently struck a power line on Saratoga Trail in Mayfield Township, electrifying the truck and setting a nearby shed on fire. Photos provided by Lapeer Fire & Rescue

TWP MAYFIELD. — On Sept. 10, Lapeer Fire & Rescue responded to an incident involving a downed power line in the 200 block of Saratoga Trail in Mayfield Township. Although the situation was resolved without injuries, the department wants to remind the public of the importance of using caution near downed power lines.

At 11:52 a.m., dispatch received a report that a pickup truck had struck a power line. The caller reported that no one was trapped, but it was initially believed that the pickup truck was on fire. The Michigan DNR Law Enforcement Division arrived on scene at 12:01 p.m. and confirmed that there was no vehicle fire, but rather a power line had fallen, causing a small grass fire that did not spread. Upon arrival, dispatchers confirmed that a power line had fallen, affecting the yard, fence, driveway, and vehicle. The power line was active and energized, posing some hazard to surrounding structures.

At 12:18 p.m., an energized shed caught fire. The 10×14 shed quickly became engulfed in flames and the response was upgraded to a second alarm, with Deerfield Fire & Rescue and the Columbiaville Fire Department providing water trucks and personnel. There are no fire hydrants in the area and water had to be brought in from water sources outside of the incident. Consumers Energy was also called to the scene to repair a burning gas line.

DTE Energy had to shut off power to over 609 residents to make the area safe for firefighting and repairs. Once power was shut off and the area was secured, firefighters were able to extinguish the shed fire and DTE began repairing the affected equipment.

“The department reminds the public to stay away from downed lines and stresses that all lines should be assumed to be energized,” said Lapeer Fire Department Chief Mike Vogt. “This includes any object in contact with or near the downed line. Objects can easily become energized and cause serious injury if accidentally contacted. Safety continues to be our top priority and we ask that everyone remain alert and aware of their surroundings, especially when working near power lines.

A roofing delivery truck from Benson's Building Supply was delivering roofing shingles. It is believed that the truck's boom struck the power lines. Although the vehicle did not catch fire, it was damaged by the electrocution. The driver was not injured and was operating the truck with a remote control.

“Our quick response on the scene prevented the fire from spreading further, even though the shed was a total loss,” Vogt said. “We would like to thank our mutual aid partners and law enforcement for their assistance in this incident.”

—Jeff Hogan