NEWS PHOTO MO CRANKER
Two city workers walk towards a fallen tree Sunday, June 10, 2018, on Belfast St. SE. More than 6,000 Hatters were without power Saturday evening, with the city working until late Sunday to get everything back in order.
As power is restored across the city after Saturday’s storm, the focus now turns to cleaning up.
Most of the damage in Medicine Hat was on the Southeast Hill where five poles had to be replaced, a pole-mounted transformer, and primary and secondary lines because a large tree fell on the lines. By 11 p.m. on Sunday service was restored.
“We recognize that it is never comfortable to go without electrical service and appreciate the patience demonstrated by our customers,” said Grayson Mauch, utilities distribution services general manager, in a press release. “Safety is always our first priority. Our crews were quick to respond and we are very proud of the quality and amount of work they completed in such a short period of time.”
Saturday’s storm resulted in power being out to more than 7,000 customers in Crestwood, River Flats, East Glen, downtown, Southeast Hill, Southview Drive and College Drive areas. To isolate the problem areas it was necessary to cut power and allow for service reconnection, this included Redcliff and the hospital area.
Repair of damaged infrastructure, including pole replacements and line repairs, was continuing on Monday.
The public is asked to keep back from crews as they work. High voltage and heavy equipment, pose a danger to those in the work zone.
City crews are also clearing fallen trees on a priority basis with public safety in mind.
City-owned trees are usually located along a boulevard or in a park. If you believe a city-owned tree is on your property and requires attention, please call the parks and recreation office at 403-529-8333.
On private property, homeowners are responsible for the removal and clean-up of affected trees and branches. The city asks that you do not push the branches and trees from private property onto sidewalks and streets.
Do not try to move a tree that has fallen onto a power line, even if the tree is on your own property, says the city. Call the electric utility to report at 403-529-8260.
“As residents visit our parks and trails, we encourage them to beware of hanging branches and maintain awareness of their environment for any hazards,” said Scott Richter, superintendent parks operations. “There may be the potential for some trees to have weakened branches or limbs that could fall unexpectedly. Staff will be assessing trees throughout the city.”
This recent storm is a good time to be reminded of the need to regularly trim trees on private property that are too close to power lines. They must be trimmed by qualified personnel with the proper tools, equipment and training, says the city.
