Credit: Troy Whitman
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SCE Crews Work to Protect First Responders in Areas Devastated by Sand Fire

Safety concerns continue to limit access to the areas affected by the fire.
By Inside Edison Staff
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UPDATED July 25, 7 p.m.

The fast-moving Sand Fire has so far consumed more than 35,000 acres and destroyed 18 structures in the Santa Clarita area. The fire which started on Friday is so far only 10 percent contained. Southern California Edison continues to monitor the weather as it may affect restoration efforts in the area and could result in possible additional service interruptions.

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In areas where it is deemed safe by first responders, SCE crews have started to assess damage where there are multiple poles and wires down with about 36 customers currently without power. On Tuesday, damage assessment will begin near Tujunga and SCE will also set up staging areas for crews and materials.

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With only 10 percent containment on Monday, additional electrical infrastructure in the area continues to be threatened.

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“The safety of residents, first responders and SCE crews in the field is our No.1 priority and damage assessment and restoration of destroyed poles and equipment in the area will only proceed when it is safe to do so,” said Troy Whitman, SCE Fire Management.  

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Residents are asked to never approach or touch damaged electrical equipment or downed wires and call 911 immediately to report them.

Power Outage and Wildfire Safety Tips

  • If possible, stay away from areas severely impacted by the fire damage.
  • If you see downed lines, please call 911 and report it to the police and fire departments immediately. Never touch or try to move a downed power line.
  • Check on the safety of family members and neighbors, especially those dependent on power for medical equipment.
  • Do not rely on candles for lighting during a power outage because they could pose a fire hazard; please use flashlights.
  • Do not cook indoors with charcoal or other fossil fuels not meant for indoor use. They could create deadly fumes if used indoors.
  • If you are without electrical service in your home or business, leave one light on to serve as a signal that electrical service has been restored in your area. This will help limit stress on the electrical system when SCE restores service.
  • Turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment, especially sensitive electronic equipment.
  • If you are using a generator, place it outdoors and plug individual appliances directly into it, using heavy-duty extension cords. Do not connect generators directly to household circuits. Doing so creates “backfeed,” which is extremely dangerous and could be fatal to repair crews.