Staying Safe, Staying Connected
As your local electric cooperative, we are committed to keeping the lights on – and we do not plan to use preemptive Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) on our local electric system. However, in extreme fire weather conditions, our regional transmission provider may temporarily shut off power to protect the broader grid and the homes and businesses on these lines. These outages, while rare, could impact parts of United Power's service area and are beyond our direct control.
Stay Prepared, Stay Connected
United Power will work to keep members informed if a public safety power shut off is imminent. Members can take these steps today to stay informed and keep safe:
- Update your account to ensure you receive notifications from United Power
- Download the United Power mobile app or bookmark the cooperative website to reach information quickly
- Create a back-up power plan – especially if you or someone in your household relies on electric medical devices
- Keep communication devices like phones or pads charged and ready to use
How Fire Danger Could Affect Your Power
Normal Settings
On a typical day, the local grid is set to balance reliability and safety. Devices on the system can detect and “blink through” objects on power lines, like a tree branch brushing a line, without causing an outage. This may result in momentary blinks while the system automatically re-energizes the circuit.
Wildfire Safety Mode
During extreme fire danger or Red Flag Warnings, United Power’s system is set to the most sensitive settings. Automated devices immediately interrupt power if they detect objects like tree branches touching lines. Crews will inspect the area to ensure the line is clear before power is restored. This measure may result in more frequent or longer unplanned outages, but the extra precautions ensure the safety of the local community and electric system.
Public Safety Power Shutoff
United Power does not plan to use Public Safey Power Shutoffs (PSPS) on its local system, however, transmission providers that supply power to United Power may preemptively shut off power during extreme fire-risk times. While rare, these outages are beyond the co-op’s direct control. United Power is committed to attempting to contact members in the event of a planned safety shut off and keeping members informed along the way.