Extreme wildfire risk triggers Austin Energy’s enhanced safety setting

Austin Energy worker Matt Reinhardt, right, and others prepare to restore power to a neighborhood on Dorsett Road in northwest Austin on Monday February 6, 2023.

Austin Energy activated its enhanced power line safety settings Sunday as extreme wildfire risk returned to the Austin area, warning that power outage restorations could take longer throughout the day.

The utility said that from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, crews will check power lines and equipment on foot instead of inspecting them from their vehicles — a precaution meant to reduce the risk that a downed line or faulty equipment could spark a wildfire. Checking equipment on foot gives crews better visibility to spot potential issues, according to Austin Energy.

"This enhanced safety precaution helps keep the community safe from potential wildfires," the utility wrote in a social media post Sunday morning. "We are closely monitoring the weather, and crews are working with heightened awareness."

The added inspection time could extend restoration efforts, Austin Energy said, and asked customers for patience as the region faces heightened fire danger.

Customers experiencing an outage can report it online, by texting OUT to 287846 or by calling 512-322-9100. The utility’s outage map will post status updates when available.

Austin Energy also urged residents to review their household outage-preparedness plans, noting that planning ahead is the best way to stay ready as fire-weather conditions continue.