PSE&G transformer catches fire and falls in Bayonne, New Jersey

A utility transformer owned and operated by PSE&G failed and caught fire on Avenue C in Bayonne, New Jersey, at around 11:45am. The burning transformer fell from its position and landed on two parked cars, which then caught fire. No injuries were reported, though a child had been taken out of one of the vehicles shortly before it ignited. A third vehicle parked nearby was not caught in the fire. Bayonne fire department units, Engine 2 and Ladder Tower 2, responded along with utility PSE&G, and firefighters used foam to extinguish the vehicle fires. Approximately 53 customers lost power. PSE&G began repair work on the lines immediately afterwards to restore supply. The cause of the transformer failure was under investigation at the time of reporting.

The technical cause of the transformer failure was not reported and was stated to be under investigation.

1. Failure of a pole-mounted distribution transformer can ignite fires in nearby property and vehicles, so inspection and condition monitoring of distribution assets carries direct third-party risk benefit.
2. Prompt coordination between the fire service and the network operator is important to contain fires involving failed electrical equipment and to restore supply safely.
3. Where distribution equipment sits above parking or pedestrian areas, the risk of burning or falling components reaching people and property is worth assessing.

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