UEC May Implement New Measure for Safety During Wildfire Season

As wildfires grow as a public concern, Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) continues to enhance its mitigation efforts by adopting new measures and protocols aimed at reducing the overall risk associated with wildfires.

UEC’s plans now include something the cooperative has rarely done before – it may turn off power in identified high risk or fire prone areas to prevent wildfire in extreme hot, dry and windy conditions.

Referred to as a Public Safety Power Shutoff, this last resort safety precaution, could prevent a fast-moving, hard-to-fight wildfire.

UEC will make every effort to coordinate and communicate with members and agencies as soon as possible should a shut off be necessary.

When would a Public Safety Power Shutoff Occur?

Every situation is unique. Some areas UEC serves are at an increased risk of wildfires. UEC monitors local fire danger conditions across its service territory and takes into consideration a combination of weather and environmental factors. These may include, but are not limited to:

• High winds, gusts or prolonged conditions
• Low humidity, drought conditions
• High temperatures
• Red Flag Warning from National Weather Service

During a Public Safety Power Shutoff, all customers serviced by the affected power line will have their power shut off. If you rely on electric or battery-dependent medical technologies such as breathing machines, a power wheelchair or scooter, and home oxygen or dialysis, it is critical that you have a plan in place for an extended power outage:

• Make sure UEC is aware of your medical device
• Establish multiple people you can contact for help who know how to operate your equipment and backup systems
• Keep emergency contact information handy
• Consider a safe backup power source, such as a generator or uninterruptible power supply

Keeping your information current makes it easier for UEC to contact you when it’s necessary. To update your information, login in to your SmartHub account and go to Settings or call UEC at (541) 567-6414.

For more information, visit the UEC website.