Xcel To Use Helicopters To Check Power Lines

UNDATED - Xcel Energy is inspecting it's electric transmission lines.

Starting today (Monday), and continuing for the next six weeks, the lines will be checked by helicopter in Minnesota and the eastern Dakotas.

The helicopter flights enable crews to look for defects or loose fittings.  The patrols will happen during the daylight hours, and the helicopter will fly within 50 feet of the lines.