If there’s one thing that the public safety power shut-off program has proven without a doubt, it’s that our members know how to stay focused and professional even under the most challenging circumstances. Unsurprisingly, you’ve all risen up to the herculean task — be it on the phone, in the field, or at the service center counter — demonstrating once again that PG&E’s physical and clerical workforce is second to none.
What you’ve accomplished these past few days fills me with pride – but unfortunately, the pride is eclipsed by the pain and heartbreak I feel when I hear that so many of you have been met with anger, hostility, even threats and attacks from customers who are frustrated and upset with the company. This is not the reception you deserve or should be forced to deal with on these long, difficult days at work.
In an effort to help the customers see what we already know to be true, today our union published a newspaper ad detailing the time, effort, and commitment that you and your families are putting in to bring the power back on for hundreds of thousands of Californians. The ad, which appeared in newspapers throughout PG&E’s service area, can be found below for your reference. We hope that this public information campaign will help to stave off further hostility. But with some customers, emotions will continue to be high. As you complete your critically important work, we urge each and every one of you to stay safe, remain vigilant, report any threats or hazards immediately, and look out for one another.
–Tom Dalzell, IBEW 1245 Business Manager
