Preparing for Planned — & Unplanned — Outages
As Douglas Electric Cooperative (DEC) plans for another wildfire season, it is critical for our members to understand and prepare for planned and unplanned outages. Rarely, DEC may need to call for a Public Safety Power Shutoff, which is a planned precautionary action aimed at preventing fires during extreme weather conditions such as hot temperatures, high winds, or dry vegetation. Unplanned outages may occur more often during fire season due to higher safety settings.
During a PSPS, power may be turned off intentionally. This is always a measure of absolute necessity. If it were to happen, we would make it widely known. We will do our best to keep you informed during a PSPS through our member services, website, and social media. Be sure to update your contact information and stay informed.
Unplanned outages occur when equipment is triggered to shut down instantly if something as minor as a bird or branch contacts the wires in a potentially hazardous way. This level of sensitivity may increase unplanned outages. These outages are immediate responses to potential risks, aimed at halting the flow of electricity to any compromised lines.
When DEC’s protective devices are on their highest settings, there may be more frequent outages and potentially longer restoration times. We know this can be challenging, especially during the fire season. It’s crucial to be prepared for an outage. Members should take the following steps:
- Have a family safety plan in place for every member of your household.
- Build an outage supply kit with water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
- Freeze containers of water to keep food cold.
- Limit opening refrigerator doors.
- Charge medical devices fully.
- Plan for medications that require refrigeration.
- Make sure generators are ready to safely operate.
Resources are available to help navigate outages and find information about cooling centers, charging stations, and other important updates. The Douglas Public Health Network has information and resources listed in “Umpqua Prepared,” a family emergency preparedness handbook. For details, visit the Douglas Public Health Network website or call (541) 440-3571.
Safety is always Number 1 at Douglas Electric.
General Manager Keith Brooks