Power outages can occur for a variety of reasons including earthquakes, severe storms or public safety power shutoff. Putting together a power outage plan now can help protect your health and safety in the event of a power failure.
Here are some basic tips for what to do In the event of a power outage
If you see a downed power line – stay away, and keep others away. Assume downed power lines are energized and dangerous. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report the location, then call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000
Report outages in your home or neighborhood to PG&E 24 hours a day at 1-800-743-5002
Find out whether your neighbors are affected by the outage, or if it’s just your property (check your circuit breakers and fuse boxes)
Unplug or turn off all appliances during an outage to help avoid overloading circuits when the power is restored
Leave a single lamp on to alert you when the power returns
Take these steps in advance
Sign up to receive emergency alerts through SMC Alert
Keep a battery-operated flashlight and radio within easy reach. Listen for updates on storm conditions and power outages
Do not use wax candles – if you want to use candles, use only the safer LED candles
Keep a standard handset or mobile phone available – don’t depend on a phone that requires electricity to work
Store water-filled plastic containers in your freezer to use as blocks of ice to prevent food from spoiling
What is a public safety power shutoff (PSPS)?
PG&E has developed plans to shutoff power during critical fire weather in order to reduce the risk of wildfire. A PSPS could lead to multiday outages in many areas during periods of extremely hot, dry and/or windy weather. A PSPS outage will last as long as the potentially dangerous weather conditions exist, plus the amount of times it takes for PG&E workers to inspect and repair their equipment in the affected area(s). Residents need to be prepared to endure a power outage lasting at least 3-5 days.