Specialist engineers are taking to the skies over Fermanagh in an attempt to ensure the lights stay on this winter.

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) will be running helicopter patrols over the coming months to identify areas of the power network in need of maintenance.

These aerial patrols of over 5,500 kilometres of overhead cables will allow trained observers to identify and record any signs of damage or wear and tear.

Alister Fenton, overhead line engineer at NIE, said: “The power network in Northern Ireland has the highest ratio of rural overhead lines per customer in the UK, apart from the remote Scottish Highlands.

“We employ a helicopter as it is the quickest and most effective way of inspecting the lines and directing maintenance crews to carry out further detailed checks and repairs. This work helps us to improve the reliability and quality of the electricity supply for homes and businesses across Northern Ireland,” he explained.

“The patrols will continue until March 2015 and will fly most days dependent on the weather. People can follow @NIElectricity on Twitter to find out when the helicopter will be in their area,” added Alister.

Any landowners with concerns about livestock or animals should contact NIE’s Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643 or follow us on Twitter @NIElectricity for details of the inspection schedule.