Preparing for a Public Safety Power Shutoff: Steps to prepare before the power goes out

As wildfire conditions continue to intensify across our state, Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) remain an important tool to help reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires and protect our communities. These temporary outages are implemented by SDG&E only when severe weather conditions require it. When it comes to potentially prolonged outages, preparation ahead of time can help customers stay safe and as comfortable as possible.

Staying informed is easy and important. Download SDG&E’s Alerts by SDG&E app (available in the Apple App Store or Google Play) to get information and updates regarding a PSPS affecting your area. Customers can get status and timely updates during a PSPS for specific locations, Community Resource Centers near your location and the latest information regarding estimated restoration times.

Planning ahead lessens the impact of a power disruption. Assemble an emergency kit with essentials such as flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, backup phone chargers, cash and more. If your household relies on refrigerated medications or medical equipment, create a plan for storage and backup power. Pets and livestock should also be included in your emergency preparation, along with manual operation of garage doors or gates.

Preparation ahead of time can help customers stay safe and as comfortable as possible.

Support resources are available. During a PSPS, SDG&E may open Community Resource Centers where customers can charge devices, access Wi-Fi and get more information. Additionally, SDG&E works with local agencies during a PSPS, such as 211 San Diego, to help provide resources to vulnerable customers.

Look after your neighbors. A PSPS affects everyone differently, and community support can make a big difference. Checking in on elderly neighbors or those with medical conditions helps provide additional support they may need during a power outage.

While preparation might not remove the risk of wildfires, it can make things easier if a PSPS occurs. By planning ahead, everyone can stay safe as SDG&E continues working diligently to protect communities from wildfire risk.

For more resources, visit sdge.com/WildfirePrep and CAL FIRE’s readyforwildfire.org.

The news and editorial staffs of Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.