In a powerful demonstration of emergency preparedness and inter-agency collaboration, PG&E facilitated a complex and high-impact Live Action Drill at the Santa Rosa Fire Training Center.
Assistant Business Manager Mike Adayan and Business Rep Mike Tilden attended the exercise which brought together PG&E Electric and Gas Operations, the Santa Rosa Fire Department, EMS, and IBEW members in a realistic and challenging simulation designed to test and improve coordination during crisis response.
The meticulously planned scenario simulated a high-voltage emergency: An auto accident which resulted in a 115kV transmission line coming down onto a 12kV distribution line, causing a massive overvoltage event that led to multiple wires down and underground cable faults. The cascading impact included a simulated gas leak and ignition in an intersecting trench, challenging crews to think critically and act swiftly to isolate hazards, coordinate response, and begin restoration.
One of the key highlights was a hurt-man rescue executed by Santa Rosa Troubleman, Teague Contreras, who worked tirelessly throughout the drill as the sole field Electric responder. His quick response under pressure, including securing a clearance for first responders to perform a vehicle extraction and completing a pole-top rescue, showcased the effectiveness of real-world training in preparing our crews for extreme conditions.
“I appreciated the thought, time, and effort that went into the drill,” said Contreras. “It was a real test of our systems, training, and teamwork, and it showed we can perform in extreme situations safely and confidently.”
The scenario was further complicated by a simulated backfeed from an improperly installed customer-owned solar system, pushing crews to troubleshoot and restore service with precision. First-step Apprentice Distribution Operator Nicole Carr also participated, gaining hands-on experience under the guidance of a seasoned Journeymen Jeremiah DeSart, Brody Barrett, and James Hutcheson and highlighting the value of these drills for all levels of experience.
“This was one of the most comprehensive and challenging drills we’ve executed yet,” said DeSart. “We’ve come a long way since our first participation in April’s drill in El Dorado Hills. Through collaboration with Gas leadership and Compliance teams, we’ve expanded these drills into truly valuable learning experiences.”
The Santa Rosa drill followed previous successful operations in Clovis and Treasure Island and exemplifies the evolution of the Live Action Drill program into a critical tool for building stronger relationships between Electric and Gas departments, local emergency services, and the communities they serve.
“These drills are making a difference,” one organizer noted. “They build confidence, sharpen our response, and strengthen the ties between our frontline workers and our communities.”
IBEW 1245 Business Rep Mike Tilden
