*It's important to understand that this program, whenever it is initiated, is done by PG&E alone, and Yuba County does not have any control over the decision.
However, the Yuba County OES will take steps during each power shutoff to ensure the safety of our residents.
What can you do to prepare?
- If we go through an extended period without power, food items that require refrigeration can spoil. You may want to consider purchasing ice to keep items cold as long as possible.
- Ensure any medical equipment that has a battery backup is fully charged.
- Take steps now to charge portable devices such as cell phones.
- Consider making arrangements to stay with friends of family, should the power be shut off.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has stated its intention to use its "Public Safety Power Shutoff" program during extreme weather events. Initiating the program requires a number of factors, which include high winds, hot temperatures and low humidity. The reason for this program is to be proactive in reducing any fire risk caused by power transmission lines affected by such extreme weather.
PG&E typically opens Community Resource Centers during PSPS events. These centers have backup generators, to provide residents with the opportunity to charge devices during the daytime hours.
Anytime PG&E shuts off power to an at-risk region, we are told it could take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, or longer, before power lines are back online. This is why it is always important for residents to make plans to prepare their households.
