Wildfire Safety

Preventing wildfires before they happen

Otter Tail Power Company partners with agencies including DTN WeatherSentry, Edison Electrical Institute, and the National Weather Service to monitor wildfire risk levels. As risk increases, we increase our mitigation measures to ensure we can maintain the highest level of safety and reliability for our customers and the communities we serve.

If a wildfire happens, you might need to leave quickly. Make sure you have a family disaster plan. 

How you can help prevent wildfires

We all have an important role in helping to prevent wildfires from starting—or spreading.

• If you notice damage to poles, wires, insulators, or other utility equipment, call your local utility immediately. You can report damages to us by calling 800-257-4044.
• If you believe there could be immediate danger or you see an uncontrolled fire, call 911.
• Planning a controlled burn?
• Get a burn permit and call your county before you start the burn. Your county will let you know if there are any burning bans in place.
• Once you’ve received county permission, be sure to have a barrier around the burn site.
• When burning ditches, take time to protect all utility equipment, such as poles and cabinets, in the ditch. Wood poles and plastic risers on poles can easily catch fire and create unsafe conditions.
• Avoid off-road travel, when possible, as hot exhaust can start grass fires.

Check out the American Red Cross for additional tips on how to reduce the change of wildfire from campfires and bonfires; smoking; yard waste or rubbish burns; fireworks; and cars, tools, and other combustion engines.