Pole fires lead to multiple power outages

EPHRATA - Early morning rains led to multiple electrical outages throughout Grant County as electrical poles caught fire, according to a release from the Grant County PUD.

As of Tuesday afternoon crews were still working to restore power, the release said.

"The weather-related outages are also impacting Grant PUD's wholesale fiber network," the release said.

Most pole fires in Grant County are caused by moisture from rainstorms, which ignites dust accumulated on pole insulators, according to a previous Columbia Basin Herald story. The dust becomes charged when it gets wet, and can conduct electricity, which leads to fires.

People should turn off and unplug all sensitive electrical equipment when the power goes out, according to information on the PUD website. People should turn down the thermostat and the water heater circuit breaker and keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed.

If people are using a generator during a power outage, it should never be operated in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide quickly, according to the PUD website. Generators should be used only to power essential equipment or appliances.

People should make a plan for medical devices and refrigerated medicines, according to the American Red Cross. Surge protectors should be installed for household electronics.

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