Drought conditions in Arizona could result in a higher than normal amount of wildfires. With nearly 20,000 miles of overhead power lines around the state, the potential threat of wildfires to our system is real. We prepare for them year-round, planning and continually strengthening our system so that our customers can feel confident they’ll be able to keep cool during the hottest days.
In the event of a wildfire, APS coordinates with the fire’s incident command as well as local, state and federal agencies. We also work closely with community partners in the affected areas.
We may de-energize power lines so fire personnel can work safely within APS rights-of-way. Under normal operating conditions, APS customers should not expect to experience an impact to their service as a result of the company having to temporarily de-energize a major transmission line.
We begin to restore power once public officials deem it is safe for our crews to enter the affected area.