APS Director Frank Sanderson presents fire mitigation strategies to Clarkdale Council

In a recent council meeting in Clarkdale, Arizona, representatives from Arizona Public Service (APS) presented their fire mitigation strategies aimed at enhancing community safety during the increasingly prevalent fire season. Frank Sanderson, the Northern Division Director for APS, outlined several initiatives designed to protect both the power grid and local residents from fire hazards.

One of the key topics discussed was the management of vegetation around power lines. Sanderson emphasized the importance of maintaining clear areas to prevent potential fire risks, noting that APS collaborates with the U.S. Forest Service to identify and remove hazardous trees that could fall onto power lines. This proactive approach is part of APS's broader commitment to fire safety, which includes creating defensible spaces around utility poles to minimize fire risks.

Sanderson also highlighted APS's investment in advanced grid infrastructure, including the replacement of traditional fuses with non-emulsion fuses that do not emit sparks when they blow. This upgrade is part of APS's efforts to harden the electrical system against fire threats, particularly in areas with a history of wildfires.

Another significant development is the implementation of smart cameras and weather stations that can detect heat signals and monitor environmental conditions. These technologies allow APS to respond quickly to fire incidents, as demonstrated by their recent success in detecting a fire near Brady, which enabled rapid communication with emergency services.

However, concerns were raised by council members regarding the impact of power shutoffs during high-risk fire conditions. Many residents in Clarkdale rely on wells for water, which become inoperable during power outages. Council member Guthrie expressed worries about the implications of power shutoffs on water supply and treatment systems, particularly during emergencies when water is critical for firefighting efforts.

In response, Sanderson assured the council that APS is committed to minimizing the impact of power shutoffs and is working on solutions to ensure essential services remain operational. He emphasized that power shutoffs would be a last resort, implemented only when absolutely necessary to protect public safety.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from APS to continue collaborating with local officials to address these concerns and enhance the resilience of Clarkdale's infrastructure against fire risks. As fire season looms, the community can take comfort in APS's proactive measures and ongoing dialogue with local leaders to safeguard both power and water supplies.