June 2024 Light Reading

LIGH READING

We’re ready for storm season. Are you?

Summer is almost in full swing and, like many of you, we welcome more opportunities to be outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather. As the season begins, so does the chance for thunderstorms.

These potential weather events can cause destruction to our electrical system, but we want you to know that Inland Power crews are ready to respond should a power outage occur in our area. When major storms knock out power, our line crews take necessary precautions before they get to work on any downed lines. We would encourage you to also practice safety and preparedness to protect you and your family during major storms and outages.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency

(FEMA) recommends the items below as a starting point for storm and disaster preparedness, and you can also visit www.ready.gov for additional resources:

Stock your pantry with a supply of nonperishable foods, such as canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, powdered milk, instant coffee, water and other essentials like diapers and toiletries.

Confirm that you have adequate sanitation and hygiene supplies.

Ensure your first aid kit is stocked with pain relievers, bandages and other medical essentials, and make sure your prescriptions are current.

Set aside basic household items,

including flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener and portable, batterypowered radio or TV.

• Organize emergency supplies so they are easily accessible in one location.

Advance planning for severe storms or other emergencies can reduce stress and anxiety during a major weather event and can lessen the impact of the storm’s effects. After the storm, we remind you to avoid downed power lines and walking through flooded areas where power lines could be submerged. Allow ample room for utility crews to safely perform their jobs, including on your property.

For more information on storms and preparedness, visit inlandpower.com/ outages-emergencies.com

Inland Power is my cooperative!

Inland Power launches drone inspection technology.

Inland Power is excited to announce the recent launch of drone technology to inspect our power lines and related equipment. This advancement is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure the reliability and safety of our system.

Drone inspections will allow us to better identify and address potential issues that could affect electric service to our members. Drone capabilities enable us to detect physical damage to power lines or equipment, identify overgrown vegetation that may interfere with power lines, locate signs of corrosion or wear on equipment and check for loose or missing hardware on power lines and poles.

What does a drone inspection look like?

A drone is a small, unmanned aircraft, operated by a licensed professional that flies near our power lines and equipment. This drone is equipped with high-resolution cameras and heat sensors to capture detailed images and data. Inspections are typically performed during daylight hours and under good weather conditions for optimal visibility; however, storm events or other situations may require additional inspections.

Please be assured that drone inspections are strictly focused on power lines, equipment and any trees that may affect our lines. As always, we respect your privacy and the drones will not be used to look at homes or private properties and will be dedicated for only our utility right of way or equipment. If you have questions or concerns about this new program, please feel free to contact us at (509) 747-7151.

Celebrating 48 Years of Service

thank you Gale Rettkowski!

We take time this month to celebrate a special member of Inland Power. Gale Rettkoski of Wilbur, WA has been an Inland Power member since 1974 and has served as a District One Board of Trustee since 1995, after serving on the Lincoln Electric board for 20 years before merging with Inland Power in 1995.

After many years of service, Gale has chosen to retire from the Inland Power Board of Trustees this month. His time and dedication towards serving as a representative for his district is appreciated, not only by fellow District One members but by Inland Power as a whole.

Please join us in thanking Gale for his many years of service!

To learn more about the power restoration, visit inlandpower.com/restoring-power

Firework Safety

Fireworks are the heart of many 4th of July celebrations and we want you to have a safe and delightful holiday. That’s why it is important to keep these safety tips in mind:

Make sure that fireworks are legal in your county or community before using.

Never buy professional grade fireworks. They are not designed for residential use.

Keep small children a safe distance from all fireworks including sparklers, which can burn at temperatures in excess of 2,000 degrees.

• Never reignite or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby to thoroughly soak duds before disposing.

• Keep pets indoors and away from fireworks to avoid contact injuries or noise reactions.

We hope you take time to follow these simple guidelines and that you enjoy your 4th of July festivities.