Equipment failure cause of widespread power outage in Red Deer

“Along 67 Street out into that Timberlands, Clearview Market, Garden Heights area and then from Parkland Mall, down Gaetz into Riverside Meadows, Highland Green and the fringes of some of the downtown neighbourhoods,” remarks Jorgensen. “The fault was enough that some others would have probably seen maybe a slight bump or flicker in the power. There would have been a number of traffic intersections that would have had no power and no signals operating.”

Jorgensen notes, however, that power was restored by 3:58 p.m.

“There was a failed piece of equipment, unexpectedly, that was the primary cause or the likely cause. We are still investigating as far as what happened exactly with regard to the equipment,” adds Jorgensen. “So there was a little bit of a dramatic release of energy for sure of overheating and a couple of pieces that the public would have seen that were on fire. Emergency Services was on scene to help us with that and to control that scene.”

Jorgensen reminds local motorists that when the power is out at traffic light intersections, to treat them as uncontrolled four-way stops and follow the rules of the road.

“Also, if you see stuff happening on the system, feel free to call the EL&P department, anytime day or night to make sure we’re aware of what’s happening in any particular area,” shares Jorgensen. “And as always, stay away from anything that looks like it has been damaged or downed lines. Make sure you give it plenty of room to allow for safety and your own personal safety.”

by Sheldon Spackman

Equipment failure cause of widespread power outage in Red Deer

What's Trending