Increased Drone, Helicopter Activity Planned In Temecula

TEMECULA, CA — Temecula residents can expect drones and/or helicopters to buzz their neighborhoods over the next few weeks, Southern California Edison announced.

While the noise might not be welcome to all, the utility said eyes in the sky are a necessary part of its wildfire prevention and mitigation program. SCE uses drones and helicopters to inspect equipment. Obtaining a 360-degree view can help ward off trouble in high-risk fire areas, according to the utility.

"The focus of these operations is to keep our communities safe by inspecting electrical equipment on poles and towers and to identify any damage or potential hazard that may need immediate repair," SCE said in a statement that was sent to the city this week.

The amount of time it takes to conduct the inspections will vary, depending on how much equipment is on neighborhood poles and towers, but SCE said the average is approximately 30 to 60 minutes per pole/tower.

Questions about the work ahead can be directed to SCE's Customer Support Center at 800-655-4555.