Recloser Settings

Columbia REA has set our power protection devices on the most sensitive setting for the fire season. This may cause additional outages as our protection devices will not try to reset without inspection by our linemen.

Fire Safety Mode is an alternative operating strategy for our electrical distribution system that places greater emphasis on system security and public safety, even if it results in more frequent or longer service interruptions.

Under normal operations, if an external object—such as a tree branch—comes into contact with power lines, our equipment detects the short circuit, temporarily shuts off power, and then automatically attempts to restore it. If the obstruction is gone, service resumes quickly, often with only a brief interruption.

In Fire Safety Mode, however, this automatic restoration feature is disabled (non-reclose) in areas identified as having elevated wildfire risk. As a result, outages that would normally last only moments may become extended, requiring a crew to inspect the line and restore power manually.

Fire Safety Mode is expected to begin around June 1, 2025, though this date may shift based on weather conditions. Once in effect, it will remain active through the dry season and will only be lifted once burn bans are removed and cooler, wetter weather returns.

If anyone has an outage, please remember to call the main office number at 509-526-4041 anytime.

Thank you