Get prepared for a PSPS

Get ready for a PSPS

Losing power can be an unwelcome disruption to your life, family and work, so we’ve created preparation tips to keep you safe and your life as normal as possible during a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). We also offer support including free Wi-Fi, device charging, bagged ice, ADA-accessible restrooms and hand-washing stations in affected communities, once the power has been turned off.

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Prepare for a PSPS event
Prepare for wildfire season

A PSPS means you could be without power for several days. We know it will be a hardship and want to help you prepare in advance. Use the following tips to get ready for, and stay safe during, a PSPS.

Food

Make your own ice ahead of time. Freeze containers of water to keep food cold while power is off.
Before the outage begins, set your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings until power is restored.
Use coolers to keep food cold while power is off.
Limit opening refrigerator and freezer doors. When power is off, food can be kept cold for up to four hours in refrigerators and up to 48 hours in freezers.
Buy shelf stable foods.

Technology

Have a backup key to replace electronic keys and locks (which need power to operate).
Turn off/unplug electrical appliances or equipment, like T.V.s and computers, that may spark or surge when power returns.
Buy a battery-powered or crank radio.
Download or print documents you may need.
Locate free wi-fi locations in nearby areas.
Invest in portable mobile and laptop battery chargers.
Charge cell phones and backup chargers in advance.
Stock up on batteries for items you rely on.

Home

Consider purchasing battery-powered LED lights or solar lanterns.
Consider any needs for pets.
Keep cash on hand and fill up gas tanks. Local ATMs and gas stations may close during an outage.
Leave a light on to alert you when power returns.
Keep flashlights in reach.
Practice opening garage doors manually.
Make sure your Electric Vehicle’s battery is fully charged. Find energized charging stations.

Safety

Find space outside to use generators, camp stoves and charcoal grills.
Write emergency numbers down somewhere accessible.
Check on neighbors.
Make sure backup power and generators are ready to safely operate. For more information, visit our backup power page.

Health

Stock up on first aid supplies.
Stock prescription and non-prescription medications.
Plan for medications that require refrigeration.
Charge medical devices fully.
For more information, customers with medical needs can visit our Medical Baseline page.
Learn more about PG&E resources for those with accessibility, financial, language and aging needs.

Additional resources:

To find information on PSPS alerts for both account and non-account holders, visit PSPS updates and alerts.
To find resources available in your area during a PSPS, visit our Community Resource Centers page.
For more ways to prepare, visit the Safety Action Center or download our preparedness guides: Residential (PDF, 738 KB), Non-Residential (PDF, 779 KB), Access and Functional Needs (PDF, 194 KB).
Use our interactive online map to learn where a PSPS event may be more likely to happen and view past PSPS events in your area. Visit the PSPS planning map.