PORTLAND, OR – With cooler temperatures and autumn leaves signaling the arrival of fall in the Pacific Northwest, Pacific Power is encouraging residents to take steps now to prepare their homes and properties for upcoming stormy weather.
Utility officials emphasize that early preparation can prevent power outages and protect families from dangerous electrical hazards.
“Fall is the best time to get ahead of winter storms,” said Jeremy Gee, Pacific Power’s vice president of health and safety. “Take a few minutes to check for trees and branches that could reach power lines, and always look up before you prune or climb a ladder. A little preparation now can help prevent outages and keep your family safe.”
Pacific Power advises property owners to always look up before pruning vegetation. Individuals should inspect trees for nearby power lines and maintain at least a 10-foot clearance between overhead wires and themselves, their ladders, and their pruning tools.
If a tree branch is already tangled in or resting across a power line, residents should never attempt to clear it themselves. Instead, report the hazard directly to Pacific Power at 1-888-221-7070.
To stay safe while completing seasonal yard work and exterior maintenance, the utility recommends following these guidelines:
Watch conductive materials: Gutters, ladders, and irrigation pipes can carry electric currents. Keep all tools and materials at least 10 feet away from power lines and any objects in contact with them.
Choose non-conductive ladders: Work with wooden or fiberglass ladders rather than metal options, which conduct electricity.
Exercise caution on gutters and antennas: Stay alert to overhead lines when cleaning, repairing, or installing gutters. When installing or adjusting antennas or satellite dishes, work with a partner and maintain a 10-foot distance from wires.
Avoid water hazards: Do not operate electrical tools near puddles, pools, or damp areas. Ensure exterior outlets feature Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) to shut off power immediately if equipment contacts water.
Keep utility equipment clear: Avoid planting trees and shrubs near ground-level utility boxes, meters, switching cabinets, and transformers. Blocked access slows down emergency repairs and endangers utility workers.
Call before digging: Underground electrical infrastructure poses the same hazards as overhead wires. Call 811 at least 48 hours before digging fence posts or planting trees to have underground lines marked at no charge.
If severe weather causes a power line to fall, always assume it is energized and dangerous. Members of the public are supposed to stay at least 35 feet away from the downed lines and anything touching it, call 911, then contact Pacific Power at 1-888-221-7070 if possible.
