Will I be compensated for food spoilage or other losses?

PG&E does not reimburse customers for losses, as power will be shut off for safety when gusty winds and dry conditions, combined with a heightened fire risk, threaten a portion of the electric system. Customers will not be charged for electricity usage during the time power is off because no power is being consumed. All customers should have an emergency plan and be prepared for any extended outages. Since a public Safety Power Shutoff could last for several days, PG&E encourages you to plan accordingly. Be aware that:

  • Fully stocked freezers usually keep food frozen for two days after losing power (if not repeatedly opened).
  • Half-full freezers usually keep food frozen for about one day (if not repeatedly opened).
  • Refrigerators usually keep food cold for up to four hours if the door remains unopened.

For questions, call 1-800-743-5000.

Visit PG&E's website for more information

Show All Answers

1. How will PG&E determine the need to turn off power for safety?
2. Which customers are most likely to have their power turned off?
3. How often will these public safety power shutoffs occur?
4. Why would power be shut off in a community not experiencing strong winds?
5. I am a medical baseline customer and/or I have special medical needs. Will my power be shut off?
6. How and when will I be notified if a shutoff becomes necessary?
7. Do I have to opt in to these alerts?
8. Can I opt out of these alerts?
9. During what hours of the day will these alerts be sent?
10. Why are there so many alerts being sent?
11. How long will my power be out if PG&E calls a public safety power shutoff?
12. When will my power be restored?
13. Will I be compensated for food spoilage or other losses?
14. What do I need in my emergency preparedness plan?
15. Do I need to sign up to get public safety power shutoff alerts?