Reducing the Risk of Wildfires

May is National Wildfire Awareness Month

By Richard McLeon, General Manager / CEO

Gone are the days when wildfires were primarily confined to the western United States. Rising temperatures, prolonged drought and shifting weather patterns are creating conditions in places that historically experienced few major fires. Today, more than 30 states, including Kansas, face elevated wildfire risk. The reality is clear: Wildfire risk is no longer regional — it is national.

At Lane-Scott Electric, protecting our members and the communities we serve is our highest priority. As we recognize National Wildfire Awareness Month in May, I want you to know that wildfire preparedness is not seasonal work for us. It is a year-round commitment embedded in how we operate.

One of the most important ways we work to reduce wildfire threats is through our vegetation management program. Overgrown trees and power lines are a dangerous combination, particularly during dry and windy conditions. Throughout the year, Lane-Scott Electric crews — along with our trusted local contractors — trim and remove vegetation that could come into contact with power lines and other critical infrastructure. This work requires careful planning, coordination with property owners and ongoing inspection. While it may not always be visible, it is an effective tool for preventing fire ignition and maintaining reliable electricity.

Wildfire mitigation also requires thoughtful public policy. Managing electric infrastructure in and around public lands can present unique challenges. That is why we support practical, commonsense solutions such as the Fix Our Forests Act, which would streamline the ability of electric cooperatives and other utilities to maintain power lines on federal lands and reduce hazardous “fuel” buildup. Policies that promote responsible land management are an essential part of a comprehensive wildfire prevention strategy.

Through membership in Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., Kansas electric co-ops had a seat at the table of the Wildfire Task Force, created in summer 2022, that has increased collaboration and partnerships between first responders, firefighters, community leaders across the state, private citizens and other Task Force members working together to take a comprehensive look at mitigating wildfire threats.

With federal funds made available through the U.S. Department of Energy State Energy Program, KEC, as a sub-grantee of those funds, has coordinated its member co-ops' efforts to harden their fire mitigation planning, mitigate potential future threats to the grid, and leverage resources across multiple electric co-ops.

While we are committed to doing our part, wildfire prevention is a shared responsibility. There are important steps each of us can take to protect our homes and neighborhoods.

Properly extinguish fires by dousing them with water, stirring the ashes and ensuring they are cool to the touch before leaving the area. Avoid outdoor burning on windy or excessively dry days. Maintain a defensible space around your home by clearing dry leaves, dead branches and other flammable debris. Use lawn equipment carefully, particularly during hot conditions, and always check local regulations for burn bans or restrictions.

Of course, as much as we work to prevent wildfires, nobody can outsmart Mother Nature, and we cannot guarantee 100% prevention. Wildfires are becoming more complex and more widespread, but through proactive system management, sound policy and community partnership, we can reduce risks and strengthen resilience.

At Lane-Scott Electric we take this responsibility seriously. Our members depend on us not only for reliable power, but for leadership in safeguarding the communities we call home.