Actions to take in anticipation of a Power Shutoff:
1) Confirm or update your contact information with PG&E so that PG&E can notify you of planned shutoffs
2) Check if the power shutoff will affect you: check your address on the PG&E potential PSPS address-lookup map
3) If someone in your household has special energy needs due to qualifying medical conditions, register with PG&E for the Medical Baseline Program, also known as Medical Baseline Allowance. This program provides assistance with the following:
- A lower rate on your monthly energy bill
- Extra notifications in advance of a Public Safety Power Shutoff.
4) And, it’s a great reminder to check your emergency preparedness supplies and readiness.
Create a safety plan for all members of your family, including pets. A Public Safety Power Shutoff can happen at any time of day or night, due to changing weather conditions.
Prepare an emergency supply kit or refresh/update the one you have. Include enough water and nonperishable food to last your household one week.
Make a plan for how you would manage without electrical power:
- Determine if your landline will work during an outage (VOIP phones will not work.). Keep mobile phones and other devices charged.
- Have flashlights available for your household. Avoid using candles.
- Have a battery-powered or crank radio.
- Stock up on the right batteries for items you rely on. Include two extra sets in various sizes.
- Keep cash on hand and a full tank of gas. ATMs and gas stations may not be available during an outage. Keep your EV car charged up.
- Freeze containers of water so you have ice ready maintain temperature in your refrigerator/freezer.
- Learn how to manually open your garage or any other door that operates with electricity.
What to do during a power outage:
- Unplug or turn off appliances, equipment and electronics to avoid damage caused by surges when the power is restored.
- Leave a single lamp on to alert you when the power returns. Then, turn your appliances on, one at a time.
- Typically, your refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours and a full freezer will keep its temperature for about 48 hours–if the freezer and refrigerator doors are kept closed. Consider using coolers with ice to keep food cold and safe.
- Be sure to use generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills outdoors only. Do not use a gas stove for heat.
- For emergencies that threaten life and safety, call 911.
- Check on your neighbors.
For more information on what to do during and after a Public Safety Power Shutoff, visit the Prepare for a Power Outage website.