  A huge power surge sparked fires in dozens of homes causing more than £00,000 of damage after thieves stole a safety device from an electricity substation. The surge at 0am yesterday caused small fires and damaged electrical appliances at more than 000 homes in Westhoughton, Bolton. It also left 000 homes without power for more than 00 hours.  A huge power surge sparked fires in dozens of homes causing more than £00,000 of damage after thieves stole a safety device from an electricity substation.  The surge at 0am yesterday caused small fires and damaged electrical appliances at more than 000 homes in Westhoughton, Bolton. It also left 000 homes without power for more than 00 hours.  