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Precaution applies from Cusick to Spokane County
NEWPORT - Pend Oreille PUD will activate Elevated Fire-Safe Mode Wednesday, July 9 beginning at 11 a.m. in response to a Red Flag Warning issued by the National Weather Service. The warning includes forecasted hot weather, high winds and low humidity, increasing the potential for wildfire ignition across the region.
Elevated Fire-Safe Mode the system is configured to shut off power immediately if an issue occurs, and no automatic restoration attempts will be made. Crews must physically inspect the line and confirm it is safe before service can be restored.
This may lead to extended outages but is in place to help protect the community during heightened fire risk, according to a news release from the PUD. Elevated Fire-Safe Mode will remain in effect if Red Flag conditions persist.
The mode will initially apply to the central and southern portions of Pend Oreille County, from Cusick to the Spokane County line. Additional areas may be included if conditions worsen or the Red Flag Warning is expanded.
This is not a Public Safety Power Shutoff, according to the news release. Power will remain on unless an issue occurs. However, customers should prepare for the possibility of extended outages. Elevated Fire-Safe Mode is the PUD’s most sensitive system setting, designed for use during periods of extreme fire weather.
Customers are encouraged to: Have a backup plan in place if they rely on electricity for medical devices, well pumps or other critical needs.
Use generators safely with a transfer switch to prevent dangerous back feed that can injure utility crews.
Stay informed by visiting www.popud.org or following Pend Oreille PUD on social media for real-time updates.
To report an outage, call the automated system at 844-971-1058 or the main office at 509-447-3137.
