September 8, 2020 - Due to current extreme conditions, Emerald People's Utility District (EPUD) is closely following the Lane County wildfires and evacuation orders. For the past several days, the utility has modified the operations of its electrical system to decrease the risk of igniting a fire. This means that in the event a fault occurs, such as a limb on a power line, it will likely affect a wider area and may increase the amount of time it takes to restore power.
In the event that areas of the service territory become included in Level 3 evacuation notices, Emerald is prepared to cut power to the area immediately. We strongly encourage customers in threatened wildfire areas to prepare now. Don't wait.
- Extremely important: Stay away from downed power lines and poles. Report downed lines to EPUD at (541) 746-1583.
- Extremely important: If you see any signs of fire, call 911.
- Extremely important: Know how to manually open automatic garage doors and gates.
- If your water comes from a well, a power outage will cause the water service to stop. Fill containers of water before the power goes out.
- Keep shoes near your bed in case you need to evacuate during the night.
- Build a supply kit. Include your prescription medications, bottled water, a battery-operated radio, flashlights, and batteries (or a rechargeable flashlight), coolers or ice chests, and external rechargeable battery packs, and an extra charging cable for your cellphones. Keep non-perishable food and a manual can opener in your kit.
- Keep the gas tank at least half full in your vehicles.
- Review your safety preparedness plan now. Make sure everyone in your household knows each step.
- Plan for your pets. Know what you need to keep them with you or where you can take them to be cared for.
- Keep your cellphone charged.
For more information contact: Kristine Lindemulder, Communications Coordinator, at the Media Line: (541) 744-7410.