Red Flag Warning

What is a Red Flag Warning?

The National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning when warm temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger.

How Does CPI Operate Under Red Flag Conditions?

During a Red Flag event, CPI implements wildfire prevention protocols in the areas covered by the Red Flag Warning. This includes setting protective devices on the electrical system to automatically de-energize the lines if they detect a faulty current that could be from downed power lines.

How Might This Impact My Service?

Any outages that occur during a Red Flag event will likely impact more members and be longer than normal. This is because CPI personnel must patrol the de-energized sections of line to ensure that all damage is repaired before they turn the power back on.

How Long Will It Last?

The location and duration of Red Flag Warnings are determined by the National Weather Service.

How Will CPI Communicate To Members Before A Red Flag Event?

Whenever possible, CPI will attempt to notify members once a Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service. However, situations may prevent CPI from providing notice as the actual onset of extreme weather conditions and other circumstances beyond CPI’s control may disrupt coordination and notification efforts.

CPI will notify members using automated calls, the CPI webpage, and Twitter.

For help signing up for a Twitter account, click here.

How To Prepare?

• Update your contact information with CPI.
• Have a personal safety plan in place for every member of your household (including pets).
• Plan for any medical needs like medications that need to be refrigerated or devices that require power.
• Create or restock your emergency supply kit, including food, water, flashlights, a radio, fresh batteries, first aid supplies, and cash.
• Identify backup charging methods for phones and medical equipment.
• Know how to open your garage door manually.
• Ensure any backup generators are ready to operate safely.
• Identify the unique needs of your family and loved ones in the area for your emergency plan.
• Designate an emergency meeting location.

Generator Safety Tips

• Make sure you turn off the main power switch or breaker in your home.
• Don’t overload the generator; use it to only power essential appliances or equipment.
• Only operate the generator outside, not indoors.

Food Safety/Spoilage

• Try not to open your refrigerator during an outage; the food might be safe after four hours.
• Should you have a freezer, a freezer full of food should remain viable for up to 48 hours and 24 hours for a half-full freezer.
• CPI is not responsible for spoiled food.

Additional Preparedness Resources

• CPI Wildfire Safety
• CPI Public Safety Power Shutoff Guide
• CPI PSPS Checklist
• CPI Generator Guide
• Ready.gov – Disaster preparedness information from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
• Project Wildfire – Information on how to reduce wildfire risk, create evacuation plans.
• National Fire Protection Association – Wildfire prevention and public education resources.