(ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.) – Yesterday, PNM trained close to 100 first responders on the dangers of electricity, and educated them about ways to stay safe in situations involving electrical equipment and facilities.  PNM works closely with local fire and police departments in a variety of scenarios, and the launch of this yearly training is another way to enhance the relationship between the utility and the first responder groups in New Mexico.  

During the training, discussion topics included how PNM responds to outages and large weather events, how to stay safe in situations with substations and other PNM facilities, what to do if a vehicle hits a power pole or other electrical equipment, and how to handle a scene with a downed power line. The training had a mix of indoor, classroom style learning, and real-world, outdoor demonstrations, including an arc demo.

“First responders encounter a myriad of situations in their jobs, and it’s extremely important for them to know how to approach and handle a scene that involves electricity and electrical equipment,” said Jeff Nawman, director of transmission, distribution and substation for PNM. “PNM line crews also act as first responders and work closely with police and fire departments, so being able to bring everyone to the table and discuss this information is invaluable” 

The training was held at the Embassy Suites in downtown Albuquerque. Entities in attendance were as follows: Albuquerque Fire Rescue, Albuquerque Police Department, Bernalillo County Fire Department, Corrales Police Department, City of Rio Rancho, Rio Rancho Police Department, Rio Rancho Fire Department, Pueblo of Isleta Police Department, Pueblo of Isleta Police Department, Open Space Division, Pueblo of Sandia Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Department, Bureau of Land Mgt Fire Department, Kirtland Fire Department, CNM, Santa Fe Fire Department, Santa Fe Fire Department, Valencia El Cerro Fire Department, CABQ Solid Waste.

PNM hopes to host this training annually, in addition to the Hot Air Balloon Safety Training for first responders that we host in the fall before the International Balloon Fiesta.

About PNM

With headquarters in Albuquerque, PNM is the largest electricity provider in New Mexico, serving 525,000 customers in dozens of communities across the state. PNM is a subsidiary of PNM Resources, an energy holding company also headquartered in Albuquerque. For more information, visit www.PNM.com.