Rodalco - They do appear to be steel poles. I wonder how often things like this happen with resulting tragedy. I must say I was very surprised that none of the 50 or so people involved with this whole fiasco realized there was any significant danger. After seeing this all unfold, I cant help but think that large warning plaques placed on the base of the poles (for the clueless among us) outlining minimum approach distances etc. - might save a few lives...
