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2/4/2024 Letter from the General Manager

Dear Cambrians,

Your safety is our priority. The Cambria CSD Fire Department, Fire Chief, and General Manager are responding to several calls for electrical emergencies, downed power lines, downed trees, and medical emergencies.

If you encounter downed power lines, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and take the following precautions:

  1. Stay away: Keep a safe distance, at least 30 feet or more, from any downed power lines. Treat all downed lines as if they are energized and dangerous.
  2. Don't touch anything: Avoid touching the power lines or anything in contact with them, such as trees, fences, or vehicles. Electricity can travel through conductive materials.
  3. Warn others: Make sure to keep others, including pedestrians and motorists, away from the area. Warn them about the potential danger of downed power lines.
  4. Report the situation: Contact emergency services by dialing 9-1-1 and then PG&E at 1-800-743-5000 to report the downed power lines. Provide them with as much information as possible about the location and the situation.
  5. Don't drive over or step in water: If the power lines are in contact with water, stay away. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity.
  6. Remember, downed power lines can be extremely hazardous, and your safety is the top priority. Always assume that any downed power line is live and take appropriate precautions.

If you come across downed trees, here are some general guidelines to follow:

  1. Safety First:
    • Ensure your personal safety and the safety of others in the area.
    • Be cautious of any immediate dangers, such as hanging branches or unstable trees.
  2. Stay Away:
    • Keep a safe distance from the downed trees and any associated debris.
    • Be aware of the potential for hidden hazards, such as damaged power lines or unstable structures.
  3. Report the Situation:
    • If the downed trees pose a threat to public safety, call emergency services by dialing 9-1-1 to report the downed trees. Provide them with as much information as possible about the location and the situation.
  4. Utility Lines:
    • Treat any downed trees near power lines with extreme caution. Assume that power lines may be live and stay away.
    • Report downed trees near power lines to PG&E so they can assess and address the situation.
  5. Clearing Debris:
    • Do not attempt to clear large or hazardous debris on your own unless you have the proper training and equipment.
    • Leave the job to professionals, such as local authorities or tree removal services.
  6. Traffic Precautions:
    • If the downed trees are obstructing roads or pathways, notify local traffic authorities.
    • Use alternative routes if possible, and follow any detours or road closure signs.
Fallen tree blocking a wet road with downed power lines and debris.
Burton Drive
A fallen tree blocks a wet road, with downed power lines and visible caution tape.
Burton Drive
A fallen tree lies across a wet road with downed power lines, under rainy conditions.
Stuart Street and Merlyn Avenue
A rainy street with lush greenery and a parked truck.
Stuart Street and Merlyn Avenue
A fallen tree is blocking a road with downed power lines during a rainstorm.
Stuart Street and Merlyn Avenue
A fallen tree is blocking a wet road after a storm.
Moonstone Beach Drive
Fallen tree blocking a wet road with downed power lines and debris.
A fallen tree blocks a wet road, with downed power lines and visible caution tape.
A fallen tree lies across a wet road with downed power lines, under rainy conditions.
A rainy street with lush greenery and a parked truck.
A fallen tree is blocking a road with downed power lines during a rainstorm.
A fallen tree is blocking a wet road after a storm.

The Cambria CSD Fire Department is always on standby and ready to respond 24/7.

Thank you again for your support; I am at your service. 

Matthew McElhenie

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