Normally Labour, I'd agree with you on this but he did state it was 5kv. I am assuming 4800 or 4160. Very unlikely that either one of those voltages are victims of ferorenance, how ever depending on the amp load flash over and catastrophic failure are very possible. I'd go to the elbows--but only if they were load break--if that can't be done safely then blink the circuit and do exactly what you recommended. Cut in a GOAB or triple single do the work safely or continue to bat the stick around in the air and continue to pray as the fire rains down.
Reading back on this OGB, I guess I actually agreed with you.
Work Safely,
L.A. Martin
Journeyman/Retired
Electric System Operator
CVEC