Cutting Power 'Is Not Worth the Gamble'
Wednesday, Jun 24, 2009 | Updated 8:00 AM PDT
AP
The utility says power lines and other equipment problems have started nearly 170 fires in the past 5½ years.
San Diego County supervisors are urging the state not to allow the shut-off of power to eastern parts of the county during dry and windy conditions to protect against wildfires.
The board voted against San Diego Gas and Electric's shut-off plan, recommending that the state Public Utilities Commission reject it.
Board chair Dianne Jacob said cutting power would risk life and property and the plan "is not worth the gamble."
The utility says power lines and other equipment problems have started nearly 170 fires in the past 5½ years.
The company first suggested cutting off power across much of the county last year after it was sued for allowing its power lines to ignite wildfires that killed two people and destroyed more than 1,000 homes.
