Essential Landscaping Safety Tips from Manitoba Hydro
As the seasons change and many of us prepare for fall landscaping, it’s crucial to prioritize safety around hydro equipment. Manitoba Hydro has recently issued important reminders for homeowners about how to effectively manage landscaping projects without jeopardizing the integrity of gas and electricity infrastructure.
When undertaking landscaping activities, one of the most critical elements to remember is the accessibility of your gas meter and associated equipment. The gas meter, which is usually mounted on the exterior of your home, connects to a gas line known as a "riser." This riser extends into the ground and includes a vital shut-off valve. During any landscaping project, it’s essential to ensure that both the riser and the valve are not buried or obstructed. Chris Remillard, a Gas Services Supervisor at Manitoba Hydro, stresses the need for at least three inches of clearance both above and below the valve to facilitate quick access during emergencies.
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If you're planning to add materials such as soil, stones, or even decorative elements around your home, take care not to cover the riser. In the event of a gas leak, emergency responders must be able to reach this shut-off valve without delay. Additionally, when using heavy machinery or tools, be cautious not to accidentally damage the gas meter or riser. If you're working with concrete or asphalt near the gas line, it's advisable to use a protective sleeve, like a PVC pipe, around the riser to mitigate damage from ground movement over time.
Tree planting is another area where caution is paramount. Before placing a tree in your yard, consider the potential height of the tree as it matures. To avoid any complications with overhead power lines, it's recommended to plant trees at least two meters away from these lines. For taller species like willows, ash, and maples, ensure they are set back a minimum of six meters. Failure to heed these guidelines can result in power line interference in the future, necessitating potentially disruptive maintenance or removal.
Another vital step before any digging project—especially if you plan to dig deeper than 15 centimeters—is to visit ClickBeforeYouDigMB.com. This resource allows you to request a line locate, ensuring you won't encounter any gas or electricity lines while digging for a fence post, planting trees, or even installing a fire pit.
If your property has a pad-mount transformer, a large green metal box, it’s essential to keep the locked side clear of any landscaping. This area must remain accessible for Manitoba Hydro crews to perform maintenance. While these transformers are generally safe for children to play around, it’s critical to educate everyone about the cables that run underground and the importance of checking with Manitoba Hydro before any digging.
As we move into this landscaping season, it's important to remember that while most residents are familiar with these guidelines, it's easy to overlook safety measures amid the excitement of home improvement. Always keep in mind that your landscaping efforts should not interfere with hydro or gas infrastructure. By following these essential tips from Manitoba Hydro, you can ensure that your landscaping projects are not only beautiful but also safe and compliant with necessary regulations.
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