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PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs

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.