November 13 , 2006

OUTAGE REPORT:
FKEC System Cut Power 10 Seconds After Skydiving Accident

A skydiver contacted power lines near Marathon Airport November 12 causing a localized power outage in the area. Despite early reports to the contrary, the downed power lines were automatically de-energized in just over 10 seconds after the accident.

At 10:12:15 a.m., a fault was detected on the "B" Feeder of Florida Keys Electric Cooperative's power distribution system in Marathon, and the automatic breaker operated normally on the circuit, shutting off power. Within milliseconds, the system ran through its normal "re-close" operation cycle to test the line.

In just over 10 seconds, the system completed its test and reported a "permanent fault" on the line, automatically cutting power to that feeder. The resulting outage affected approximately 2,000 residents in the area.

"Early reports that the downed line remained 'live' for 10-15 minutes are incorrect," said FKEC CEO Scott Newberry. "The line was automatically de-energized, but the early responders took the appropriate precautions. Downed lines do have the potential to be dangerous, so the deputies arriving on the scene waited to assist the injured skydiver until FKEC crews arrived."

FKEC line crews responded in approximately 10 minutes to isolate the damaged lines and pole. The crews initiated the proper switching procedures to isolate the damaged power equipment and provide a safe work area to restore power to customers outside the area.

Customers on the "B" Feeder outside of the damaged area were restored by 11:25 a.m. By 1:50 p.m., FKEC's system was returned to its normal operating configuration.

The skydiver was 43-year-old Mike Wysong of Tequesta, Fla., and he was severely burned when he hit and became entangled in power lines.

Wysong suffered burns over an estimated 15 to 20 percent of his body and was airlifted from Fishermen's Hospital in Marathon to Ryder Trauma Center in Miami.