19 May
May is designated as Wildfire Awareness Month, an annual observance to promote preparedness and prevention efforts related to wildfires. As dry conditions continue across our service area, CORE remains focused on protecting the communities and landscapes we call home. Work is done year-round to reduce the risk through system maintenance, vegetation management and operational practices.
Operational Practices
CORE monitors weather forecasts and fuels data daily to maintain awareness of fire-risk conditions throughout our service area. During Red Flag Warnings and other high-risk weather conditions, CORE may enable alternate relay settings (ARS) on certain circuits. When ARS is active, power lines become more sensitive to potential hazards, operating the instant a fault is detected to reduce the risk of wildfire ignition.
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is a last-resort measure used only when weather and fire conditions are extreme and the wildfire risk is exceptionally high due to critically dry fuel and extreme forecasted winds.
Inspection Programs
Routine inspections of overhead distribution and transmission systems are conducted using ground crews and drone technology. Identified issues are prioritized and addresses based on risk. Wooden utility poles are regularly tested to assess structural integrity, and replaced proactively when needed.
System Hardening
CORE continuously updates design, equipment and construction standards to reduce ignition sources and increase reliability.
Vegetation Management
CORE’s program includes scheduled trimming, mid-cycle inspections and pole clearing to maintain safe clearances from powerlines and equipment, particularly in high-risk areas.
Emergency Response
CORE funds AI-enabled wildfire cameras that immediately alert employees and first responders if smoke is detected. The Wildfire Response Procedure identifies roles, responsibilities and actions to facilitate effective communication and coordination with Incident Command.
For more information on CORE’s Wildfire Mitigation Program, visit this page.