outhern California Edison has sent out an alert notifying us that there is the potential for a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in our area. SCE is anticipating that this may occur on Thursday, October 24th although it could occur earlier or later depending on how the weather conditions develop. SCE will send daily updates until conditions improve, so as we get closer to the date we will be able to share more accurate information.
At this time, there is no estimate on how long the outage could last if it occurs. SCE will power down the lines until the fire hazard has passed, which means humidity increases and winds decrease. We encourage everyone to have an outage plan and an emergency kit.
Preparing for a Power Outage
Power outages, planned or unplanned,may disrupt vital infrastructure and services:
- Water Service - without power, pumps will not operate to refill our water tanks
- Communications - VOIP and landline phones may not work
- Transportation/Travel - traffic signals may not work
- Medical Devices - a power outage can prevent the use of medical devices
- Business Closures - ATMs, banks, gas stations, grocery stores and other businesses may not be able to remain open during a power outage
Before the outage begins:
- Sign up for CodeRED and ReadyKERN to receive locally relevant emergency alerts
- Update your contact information with Southern California Edison to receive their alerts
- Take an inventory of the items that you use that rely on electricity, and identify backup methods that you can use when a power outage occurs
- Identify backup charging methods for cell phones and electronics
- Keep your mobile phone charged so you can receive emergency notifications
- Create an emergency supplies kit, including food, water, and medications for your family and pets
- Know how to use the manual release on your garage door
- Keep gas tanks full
- Fill water containers 24-48 hours in advance so that our water tanks have time to refill before the outage occurs
- Discuss your plan with your family and neighbors
During the outage:
- Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. Mark the handle with tape or string as a reminder
- Use a thermometer to monitor freezer and refrigerator temperatures
- Use perishable food supplies first
- Use generators and grills outdoors, well away from windows
- Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage when power returns
- Check on your animals, neighbors, and family
After power is restored:
- Throw away food that has been exposed to temperatures above 39* for more than 2 hours
- Check with your pharmacist regarding refrigerated medications