As part of its ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of wildfires in high fire risk areas, Pacific Gas and Electric will inspect and remove vegetation and other combustible material around the bases of utility poles in Vacaville.
California is currently heading for one of its worst wildfire seasons on record, according to utility data. As of August 8, more than 5,000 wildfires of 10 or more acres have been reported this year, burning over 805,000 acres, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) — well above the 2023 total and also the five-year average.
“Due to the increased wildfire risk this year, PG&E intends to remove all combustible material and vegetation around approximately 50,000 utility poles in high fire risk areas, primarily on the North Coast, North Valley, and in the Sierra and Central Valley regions,” officials said. “PG&E also continues to look for additional ways to further reduce wildfire risk in response to the increased wildfire risk in our state. These actions complement the ongoing mitigation efforts that comprise PG&E’s wildfire protection.”
Vegetation removal measures include inspecting poles, fuses and towers, trimming grass and shrubs within three metres of the base of power poles, removing branches, leaves and other vegetation at least two and a half metres above the ground, and clearing away all pruning debris and debris containing hail.
Utility officials said this work would be in addition to the poles PG&E regularly clears and would not impact gas or electricity service in the area. Workers may need to contact landowners directly to gain access to their properties if necessary.
For more information about these efforts or other wildfire prevention efforts, visit pge.com/wildfiresupport.
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