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Public Safety Power Shutoffs

What to know about public safety power shutoffs

How IRWD is prepared to continue operating during a PSPS.

 

Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) occur when electric utilities turn off power in high-risk areas to reduce the likelihood of a wildfire starting from downed power lines and equipment.

IRWD is prepared to continue operating during these shutoffs.

  • Backup generators: Permanent generators to keep our systems operating are set up at all of IRWD’s critical facilities, and the District also has portable generators. This is especially important in canyon and backcountry areas, where it helps retain the fire flow necessary for firefighters.
  • Monitoring: Staff monitors wildfire risks and regularly inspects facilities.
  • Plan of action: During high-risk situations, IRWD takes action to prepare. This may include filling water storage tanks or mobilizing equipment and supplies as needed.
  • Communication: We maintain communication with other agencies and first-responders to make sure hazardous conditions are addressed before problems strike.
  • Alternative power sources: Several facilities have alternative sources of power.

 

Helpful resources

Public Safety Power Shutoffs IRWD fact sheet
Southern California Edison’s Public Safety Power Shutoff website
IRWD Alert
FEMA disaster-ready kit tips

Frequently asked questions

You should see no disruption in water service. IRWD has a procedure in place to avoid any disruption in service. Backup generators at the District’s critical facilities will provide power during a shutoff and portable generators can be moved to wherever they are needed to keep water and sewer services operating smoothly. Water storage tanks are filled ahead of time in high-risk conditions and use gravity to deliver water to customers’ taps.

The District is ready to respond to emergencies quickly. IRWD monitors weather conditions to proactively prepare for threats before they become emergencies and can respond at a moment’s notice. In the case of PSPS events, Southern California Edison (SCE) typically issues a two-day notice and maintains communication with the District through a designated liaison who can help keep communication lines open when the need arises. In the event that a PSPS is called without notice, IRWD’s permanent generator stations kick on automatically whenever power is lost. Staff are trained to respond to a variety of emergency scenarios and to coordinate with regional agencies as needed.

Plan ahead. If you live in a high-risk PSPS area (typically a neighborhood surrounded by or bordering a large area of open space), here are some steps you can take to be ready:

  • Keep an emergency supply of water, non-perishable food, and other items such as a cooler and ice on hand at all times.
  • Install surge protectors to safeguard electronic equipment.
  • Learn how to manually open automatic garage door openers or gates.
  • An unopened refrigerator can keep food cold for several hours. Open the door only when necessary.
  • Keep your gas tank at least half-full so you can make it to a gas station outside of your PSPS area.
  • Familiarize yourself with outage tips from SCE.

Search the California Public Utilities Commission’s map.