Did you know that newer utility poles can play an important role in protecting homes and neighborhoods during weather disasters?

With severe weather events of varied types threatening homes with increasing frequency, homeowners must consider every aspect of their property to strengthen their resistance to damage. This includes nearby utility poles.

Both prospective and current homeowners need to understand how utility pole infrastructure relates to home safety, no matter where you are in the current lifecycle of homeownership: buying, owning, or reselling. In short, your existing or prospective home may be in danger during natural disasters due to old utility pole infrastructure.

Knowing the role utility poles play and how they may increase or decrease risks will help you make better decisions for your safety and overall real estate investments.

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Why Utility Poles Are Critical for Storm-Resistant Homes

Utility poles can continue to power homes and provide essential services during storms. Storm-resistant poles are vital for maintaining power, especially in areas prone to hurricanes and high winds.

Strong composite utility pole with electric lines

Modern grids now include materials like ductile iron and composite poles, which are more durable and resilient against harsh conditions. Newer poles offer a practical solution to reducing storm-related damage, helping protect not just homes but entire neighborhoods.

Using stronger materials in utility poles can help power grids avoid widespread failures. This is especially true in areas regularly hit by severe weather. For example, composite poles are resilient against storms, while traditional wooden poles often fail under such pressure.

 

Ductile Iron: A Storm-Resistant Game Changer

Ductile iron poles offer significant advantages over traditional materials, such as wood and concrete. The design and materials of ductile iron poles help them endure extreme weather conditions, including storms and wildfires.

McWane ductile iron utility poles

Ductile iron’s long life expectancy and corrosion resistance also increase its longevity, reducing maintenance needs. Its durability makes it an excellent choice for regions that face frequent threats of intense storms.

Durable ductile iron poles benefit homeowners, in particular, by minimizing outages. Their ability to handle heavy winds and harsh environments ensures communities remain connected during critical periods of harsh weather.

This type of utility pole can endure conditions that would typically damage wood or concrete structures, making them essential for maintaining power and services during episodes of severe weather.

 

Real-World Impact of Storm-Resistant Utility Poles

New, storm-resistant utility poles already protect homes during disasters, as utility companies are upgrading their grids with stronger, more reliable materials across many geographic areas.

Neighborhood damaged by hurricane winds with fallen trees and utility lines and poles

Grid improvements are especially necessary in regions that experience frequent hurricanes. Companies are making resilient grids using advanced materials to reduce storm damage, help protect homes, and lower repair costs caused by severe weather events.

Investments in high-quality poles improve grid reliability, reduce outages, and protect residential and commercial properties. Their ability to withstand high winds, extreme rain, and fire makes them a smart, long-term investment for any storm-vulnerable region.

 

Resilience Beyond Hurricanes: Wildfire Protection

Utility poles also strengthen homes in wildfire-prone areas.

Utility pole being tested for fire resistance

Utility pole being tested for fire resistance

Ductile iron and composite poles resist fire damage, unlike traditional wooden poles, which can fuel wildfires. Resistant materials make utility poles far more effective at withstanding fire-related threats, imperative for residential communities located in wildfire-prone regions.

 

What Homeowners Can Do About Older, Less-Safe Utility Poles

If you’re a homeowner in the United States and suspect an older, potentially unsafe utility pole resides near your property, it’s crucial to act proactively to increase safety prior to the next severe weather event.

Detailed view of wooden utility pole

Here are steps you can take to remedy an unsafe utility pole:

 

Inspect the Utility Pole

Look for signs of damage such as cracks, rot, leaning, or missing components. A deteriorating pole may have visible wear that compromises its structural integrity.

Old wooden electrical utility pole

 

Document the Condition

Take photos and notes of the pole’s condition, especially any visible defects or nearby hazards like hanging wires or overgrown vegetation.

 

Contact Your Utility Company

Reach out to your local utility provider to report your concerns. Most companies have dedicated lines for safety issues. Provide them with the pole’s location and any documentation you’ve gathered.

 

Follow Up

After filing a report, follow up to ensure the issue is being addressed. Utility companies often prioritize replacing or repairing poles that pose a safety risk.

 

Engage Local Authorities if Needed

If the utility company does not respond promptly, escalate the matter by contacting your municipality or public utility commission. They can often mediate or enforce necessary action.

 

Take Preventative Measures

Trim nearby vegetation and secure loose objects in your yard to minimize risks if the pole fails during severe weather. Always stay away from fallen poles, wires, and standing water during extreme conditions, such as high winds or ice storms. Call emergency services immediately, while safely warning neighbors and passersby of the danger.

Downed wooden utility pole in residential street

 

Stay Informed About Local Regulations

Some states have guidelines or inspection schedules for utility poles. Familiarizing yourself with these rules can help advocate for safer infrastructure in your area.

By taking these steps, you can not only ensure your safety, but also contribute to the overall resilience of your community during severe weather events.

 

Closing Comments

Resilient utility poles are an essential component of storm-resistant homes. Ductile iron and composite poles offer durability and reliability during severe weather events, including hurricanes and wildfires.

Homeowners must know the risks and dangers that may affect their property. While homeowners cannot immediately or directly change their utility poles, there are many ways you can make your home more wildfire-resistant, while waiting for your nearby utility pole infrastructure to be updated. If you’re moving to a fire-prone state, you may want to consider neighborhoods using ductile iron poles.

 

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