Protecting the power grid of Fall River Electric Cooperative from wildfire damage is a priority of the Co-op but more importantly protecting the lives and property of our owner-members is of paramount importance.
Should a serious wildfire event occur within our service territory, Fall River Electric Cooperative may implement a "Fire Safety Shutoff" (FSS) which is defined as an entire shut-off of power in any one or more of our service area. In addition, Fall River's transmission providers (Bonneville Power Administration and PacifiCorp) may also implement a FSS which would impact Fall River's power supply.
An FSS will result in the loss of power to critical equipment such as well pumps, irrigation lines, refrigeration, electric gates, garage door openers, and to members which have medical equipment reliant on electrical power.
Internet and cell service may also be affected if the FSS has a long duration. Members of the Co-op should prepare themselves for the potential of an FSS by taking these steps:
- Have an adequate supply of non-perishable food, water, and medications on-hand and available to take with you should you need to evacuate.
- In advance, members should create a defensible space around their property to protect from wildfire. Ready.gov is an online resource for how to create this space.
- Consider installing a propane powered back-up generator and transfer switch to provide power to your property in case of an FSS. Contact a licensed electrician for installation.
Fall River Electric Cooperative has created a "tool kit" of information about back-up generation here on our website under the tab My Renewable Energy. Click on that tab and follow the link to "Standby Generators". There you will find info on selecting the right generator for the job and a list of qualified electricians in our service area. There is also information on Battery Backup systems that might be an option for some homeowners.
Fall River Electric Cooperative has a mitigation plan in place in case of a wildfire in our service area. The plan outlines the steps the Cooperative will take to mitigate the risk of wildfire while operating and maintaining our electrical system. The plan is reviewed and modified on an ongoing basis as changes occur. Co-op members may contact our Operations Department during normal business hours Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) at 800.632.5726 to ask questions concerning the plan.
