Fire-Safe Mode Now Activated for 2026
As summer temperatures rise and wildfire risk increases across the region, Pend Oreille PUD has activated Fire-Safe Mode, a critical operational shift designed to reduce the likelihood of wildland fires caused by the electrical system. The PUD will remain in Fire-Safe Mode until weather conditions improve and fire danger subsides.
During high fire-risk conditions, the PUD switches its electric system to Fire-Safe Mode, which automatically shuts off power if there’s a problem, like a tree branch falling on a power line. Under normal conditions, breakers automatically attempt to re-energize the line up to three times. In Fire-Safe Mode, the system does not attempt to turn the power back on automatically. This may result in more outages, but it greatly reduces the risk of sparks that could potentially start a wildfire in dry conditions.
When a fault (or outage) occurs, the system will shut power off after the first trip. PUD line crews must then inspect the line and confirm it is safe before restoring power, an approach that prioritizes safety but may lead to more frequent and longer outages during the summer months.
In addition, when Red Flag Warnings or other extreme fire weather events are issued by the National Weather Service, the PUD may implement Elevated Fire-Safe Mode. This even more sensitive setting further reduces automatic operations and requires in-person line inspections before any power restoration, potentially extending outage durations but ensuring maximum precaution.
Pend Oreille PUD has implemented Fire-Safe Mode seasonally for years and continues to evaluate system settings, vegetation management, and community preparedness as part of its broader wildfire mitigation strategy.
Customers are encouraged to prepare for possible extended outages, follow local fire restrictions, and also sign up for emergency notifications from the county at https://www.pendoreille.gov/emergency-management/page/nixle
Fire-Safe Mode is Not a Public Safety Power Shutoff
Unlike some neighboring utilities, Pend Oreille PUD does not proactively shut off power because of wildfire risk. Fire-Safe Mode only changes how the system responds after a natural outage occurs.
Most outages during Fire-Safe Mode are caused by normal events such as:
- Trees or branches contacting power lines
- Wildlife
- Wind or storms
- Equipment issues
These "natural outages" may last longer because crews must inspect the line and confirm it is safe before restoring power.
Tips for Preparing for a Power Outage:
- Fully charge cell phones and other essential devices.
- Gather food, water, medications, batteries, pet supplies, and other necessities your family may need during an outage or evacuation.
- Fuel up your vehicle in advance, as gas stations may lose power during outages.
- Make sure Pend Oreille PUD has your current contact information to ensure you receive important notifications.
- If using a generator, follow all safety guidelines to prevent dangerous backfeed onto power lines, which can endanger crews and the public.
- All backup generators should be installed with a transfer switch that meets National Electric Code requirements. Installations must be inspected by L&I, and the PUD requests that customers provide a copy of the permit.
Generator Safety Reminder
Improperly connected generators can send electricity back onto power lines, creating a dangerous condition known as backfeed. Backfeed can seriously injure utility crews and the public.
- Never operate generators indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- Always follow manufacturer instructions.
- Permanently installed generators should be connected through an approved transfer switch and inspected by Labor & Industries.
- Notify the PUD after installation and provide a copy of the permit.
Wildfire Mitigation Plan
Wildfire Mitigation is a top priority at Pend Oreille PUD. For Pend Oreille PUD, which operates in heavily forested areas across Pend Oreille County, mitigating wildfire hazards is an essential part of providing safe and reliable electricity to our customers and the communities we serve.
Pend Oreille PUD formalized and the Board of Commissioners approved its Wildfire Mitigation Plan in October 2024. The plan outlines our programs to adapt the electric system to evolving fire-related conditions, implement new technologies to detect issues proactively, and enhance operational practices to reduce the potential for ignition.
Wildfire Mitigation Plan
Preparing Your Home for Wildfire Season
One of the most basic tips for wildfire preparation is creating defensible space around your home—thinning or removing trees and brush and picking up pine needles, grasses, and finer fuels.
Homeowners should focus on three home ignition zones: Immediate Zone (the home itself and 0-5 ft), Intermediate Zone (5-30 feet), and the Extended Zone (30-100 feet).
While full-scale tree (brush) thinning or removal might not need to be done on an annual basis, pine needles, grasses and finer fuels need to be addressed at least once if not twice a year.
Ready, Set, Go! – Evacuation Information
When an emergency occurs, do you know when to stay and when to go? The Pend Oreille County Department of Emergency Management has prepared a comprehensive disaster response plan to deal with emergencies. To help Emergency Management in the event of an emergency, it is important you and your family know what the evacuation level terms mean and know how to react. REMEMBER, the best way to prepare for a disaster is: Prepare your Home, Make a Kit, Have a Plan, and Be Informed.
LEVEL 1 (GET READY) - A Level 1 Evacuation means Get Ready. Residents should be alert and aware of the danger that exists in their area and monitor local media outlets for information. Residents with special needs (such as a susceptibility to breathing problems in wildfires or those with animals/pets) should take note and begin making arrangements to evacuate. For wildfires, smoke can often cause the most problems for residents, especially those sensitive to smoke. Evacuations at this time are voluntary.
LEVEL 2 (GET SET) - A Level 2 Evacuation means Get Set. This level indicates there is significant danger to your area, and residents should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or with family/friends outside of the affected area, or if choosing to remain, be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
LEVEL 3 (GO!) - A Level 3 Evacuation means Go. Danger to your area is current or imminent, and you should leave immediately. Listen to local media and watch for emergency personnel who may be coming by to give further instructions regarding the evacuation. During evacuations, the American Red Cross will establish shelters at schools, churches, or community buildings in our area in safe zones. Above all, remain calm. Preparing your home in advance for disaster, having a kit, making a plan, and remaining informed means you can make informed and calculated decisions for your family, and you know your escape routes in advance.
Click here for weather alerts from the National Weather Service - Spokane.
Click here for more wildfire preparedness education and tips.