Longmont Power & Communications, which does not have a pre-preemptive power shutoff program, is taking several steps to prevent a fire ahead of forecasted high winds this week.
“We believe that we’re taking the steps that we need to take right now to keep the lights on, but honestly, every event is scrutinized and evaluated,” said Electric Utility Director Darrell Hahn. “Power safety shut off is an extreme response, but it is something that makes sense in the right circumstances.”
Longmont Power & Communications, or LPC, crews are temporarily modifying the system so it doesn’t automatically re-energize when it detects a fault. This helps prevent a fire if, for example, the wind blows a tree onto a power line…