Helicopter inspections scheduled for June 18-21

– Submitted photo

MASON COUNTY — Helicopter inspections of power structures and lines will be conducted in the area June 18-21.

“ITC will conduct aerial patrols of the high-voltage transmission structures and lines in Michigan from May 27 through June 30, weather permitting,” states an ITC press release. “The helicopter patrols are conducted to provide an overall status of the overhead transmission system that is operated by ITC’s Michigan operating entities, ITC Transmission and Michigan Electric Transmission Company, LLC.”

The aerial inspections will cover nearly all of the Lower Peninsula.

In addition to Mason County, there will be patrols during the June 18-21 time frame in Oceana, Muskegon, Newaygo, Lake, Ottawa, Kent, Mecosta, Midland, Montcalm, Allegan, Clinton, Gratiot, Ionia and Isabella counties.

“These patrols are a North American Electrical Reliability Corporation requirement for ITC’s vegetation management program; support proactive maintenance objectives; and are in line with the company’s model for operational excellence. They include inspections of all transmission structures and equipment including, but not limited to, monopoles, steel towers, wood poles, conductors (wires), insulators and other equipment.

“Crews check for damaged or worn equipment and vegetation hazards. The inspection flights are often conducted at low altitudes to allow accurate visual inspection of equipment for lightning damage, wear or other potential problems. This is normal procedure, so there is no cause for alarm if a low-flying helicopter is sighted near transmission lines.”

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