As summer heats up and wildfire season approaches, it’s important to be ready for potential power-related events like Flex Alerts, PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), and rotating power outages. While these events are in San Francisco, being prepared can make all the difference.
We’re here to help you understand what these events mean and how you can stay safe, comfortable, and informed. Let’s walk through the basics.
Flex Alert: Conserve Energy, Prevent Outages
A Flex Alert is a statewide call to voluntarily reduce electricity use, typically between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., when the power grid is under the most strain. These alerts are issued by the California Independent System Operator (ISO) to help prevent emergency outages.
When a Flex Alert is active:
Delay using large appliances like washers, dryers, and dishwashers until after 9 p.m.
Unplug devices and turn off lights in unused rooms.
Use fans instead of air conditioning when possible.
Get energy-saving tips at CleanPowerSF.org/saveenergy.
Stay informed: Sign up for Flex Alerts notifications at the California ISO website or follow us on social media at @MySFPUC and @CleanPowerSF.
Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS): Preventing Wildfires
PG&E may temporarily shut off power in high-risk areas during extreme fire weather to prevent wildfires. These Public Safety Power Shutoffs are planned and designed to keep communities safe when there’s a high threat of wildfires.
Prepare ahead:
Make sure your contact info is current by visiting PG&E Alerts.
Monitor real-time outage maps and updates through PG&E.
Visit SF72.org to learn how to create a power outage plan for your household.
Rotating Outages: Emergency Measures During High Demand
Rotating Power Outages are short, planned power outages that occur when electricity demand exceeds supply. These are implemented by PG&E at the direction of California ISO and may happen with little or no warning.
Stay alert during emergencies:
Text your ZIP code to 888-777 to receive real-time alerts.
Visit alertsf.org to sign up for emergency notifications and updates.
Helpful Resources to Keep You Ready
You might be more prepared than you think! SF72.org is a trusted resource for everything you need to stay ready during emergencies.
Quick Links:
Tips for power outage preparedness: sf72.org/hazard/electric-outages.
Supply checklist, including essentials like flashlights: sf72.org/supplies.
To report a power outage in San Francisco, call 3-1-1.
By staying informed and planning ahead, you can keep your cool – literally and figuratively – through any power events this summer.