PG&E Wildfire Season & Safety Reminders

As many of you may know, California is very prone to wildfires during this dry and hot season of the year. To ensure that residents are as safe as possible when wildfires become a threat PG&E has issued a notice that in order to limit danger and damages they may temporarily turn off electricity to certain areas to protect the public. Additionally, they have released some safety tips for homeowners to keep in mind:

• • Avoid hitting electrical lines: check your surroundings when doing work outside. Look above you before lifting or moving pipes and ladders. Keep yourself and any tools at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines. Do not prune trees close to lines unless you are a qualified line-clearance tree worker.
  • If you are doing any digging (planting a garden, installing a fence or something larger) call 811 or visit california811.org two business days before you dig. PG&E will come out to place markers on any underground lines you need to avoid.
  • Know where PG&E’s larger transmission pipelines are located: look for pipeline markers and know that the pipes do not always follow a straight path between two markers.
  • Learn to spot natural gas leaks: If you smell a “rotten egg” odor it could be an indication of a leak. Listen for any hissing, whistling or roaring sounds coming from underground appliances. Look for dirt spraying into the air, bubbling in a pond or creak, or dying plants in an otherwise moist area
  • If you suspect a gas leak or damage an underground line, alert anyone in the area to move upwind, call 911 and then contact PG&E at 1.800.743.5000.
  • If you suspect a gas leak do not use anything that could be a source of ignition in the immediate area. Items such as vehicles, cell phones, matches, electric switches, doorbells or garage door openers could cause a spark.

  Additionally, in the event that PG&E must shut off power it is important that you have the correct contact information up to date on your account. Visit pge.com/mywildfirealerts or call 1.866.743.6589 to update your contact information.

  Thank you for taking the time to review this information. Distinct hopes you all stay safe during this time and are able to enjoy the end of summer.