Figure fig. 015 6. Tree strikes can damage overhead utility infrastructure (direct consequence) and cause extended power outages (indirect consequences). reactive response to restore service and return the system to normal. Examples of negligible direct consequences include: * Removing fallen trees or branches that are hung up in energized distribution primary and secondary lines Assessment criteria useful in rating direct consequences on a specific utility system may be defined by the utility vegetation manager. Indirect Consequences Indirect consequences are those outcomes that may occur because of treecaused damage to the overhead power system. Indirect consequences consider the effect of a tree strike in terms of effort necessary to respond to the incident, restore power, repair the damage, and return the system to normal. Indirect consequences also consider those things that may occur as a result of damage or contact to an overhead power system. Overhead distribution and transmission lines typically are not insulated and rely on physical separation between energized conductors and equipment and other objects that may provide a short-circuit pathway. Standards such 41