DENVER — Xcel Energy will conduct helicopter inspections and patrols of distribution lines near the communities of Alamosa, Fort Garland, Del Norte and Saguache. These flights will gather imagery to support ongoing wildfire protection efforts in the area, according to Xcel Energy officials.

The helicopter flights were scheduled to begin Monday, Nov. 7. Weather permitting, the flights will take place over the next two weeks.

Residents may see and hear the helicopter for extended periods of time as it hovers or flies over areas. There will not be any other customer service impacts or road closures.

Xcel Energy will use the aerial survey data gathered during these flights to create detailed maps that support risk analyses, modeling, resilience, recovery and planning for wildfires.

To learn more visit xcelenergywildfireprotection.com.