Pacific Power Outlines Expanded Wildfire Safety Measures

Portland, Oregon- Pacific Power is expanding its efforts to reduce wildfire risk across its service area by enhancing weather monitoring, managing vegetation, and upgrading parts of its electrical system.

The utility announced the measures Monday, stating that safety remains a top priority as wildfire risk continues to grow throughout the West.

As part of its wildfire mitigation strategy, Pacific Power said it may temporarily shut off power or adjust system settings during periods of elevated fire danger.

One component of the plan includes Enhanced Safety Settings, which automatically de-energize power lines if they come into contact with debris, wildlife or strong winds. The utility noted that while this can lower the risk of fire ignition, it may also increase the likelihood of unplanned outages.

In certain situations, Pacific Power may implement an Emergency De-energization if a wildfire is approaching power lines or equipment. The company also has the option to initiate a Public Safety Power Shutoff, a temporary power outage based on extreme weather conditions such as high winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation.

Customers can learn more about these preventative measures and access resources at PacificPower.net/Wildfire.

Pacific Power provides electric service in portions of Oregon, California, Washington, and other western states that have faced significant wildfire threats in recent years.