Public Safety Power Shutoffs & Defensible Space
It is wildfire season again, and I want to remind you of the importance of preparedness.
Wasco Electric Cooperative (WEC) values the reliability of the electricity we provide to you. We consider Public Safety Power Shutoffs to be a measure of last resort, yet there may be times when we need to take this preventive measure to reduce the risk of wildfires during extreme weather conditions.
When high winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation combine to create a heightened fire risk, we may have no other alternative than to activate a PSPS. This strategy is designed to prevent electrical equipment from sparking fires, thereby protecting lives and properties.
While PSPS events can be inconvenient, they are a necessary precaution to prevent catastrophic wildfires. We will do our best to provide advance notice of planned shutoffs, allowing you to prepare. However, there are times this may not be possible due to ever-changing weather conditions. During these times, we will communicate with you to the best of our ability.
We appreciate your understanding.
As we at WEC prepare for wildfire season, how are you prepared?
1 of the best steps you can take is to create a defensible space for your home and structures.
A defensible space is a buffer zone around a building where flammable vegetation and materials are reduced or removed. This space helps slow the spread of a fire and provides firefighters with a safer area to operate, increasing the chances of saving homes and other structures.
If you haven’t begun to prepare, consider these steps:
- Clear vegetation and debris. Remove dead plants, leaves, and branches from around structures.
- Maintain landscaping. Keep grass mowed and plants well-watered. Prune trees and shrubs to reduce fuel.
- Use fire-resistant materials. Consider using non-flammable materials for landscaping and construction, such as gravel, stone, and fire-resistant plants.
- Create safety zones. Maintain a minimum of 30 feet of defensible space around your home, extending up to 100 feet in high-risk areas.
Your cooperation and preparedness help us all stay safe during wildfire season.
Lindsay Forepaugh
General Manager