With wildfires burning across the state and extreme weather events affecting communities, residents are reminded to prepare for potential power outages. These events can damage electrical equipment or force utilities to adjust system settings, which may lead to more frequent or longer outages. In some high-risk areas, utilities may implement public safety power shutoffs (PSPS), a safety measure designed to help protect people and communities in high fire-risk areas by proactively shutting off electricity. Utilities may also de-energize lines to protect equipment or to support firefighting efforts.

Be prepared in advance

Prepare your home and businesses in the event a wildfire or weather incident leads to a power outage.

• Be two weeks ready – Gather food, medical supplies, batteries, pet supplies, among other things, needed by family members during an outage or evacuation for up to two weeks. Learn more about what supplies to consider.
• For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your electricity service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. This certification provides added benefits and helps the utility ensure they meet your needs in the event of an outage.
• Update your utility account on your service provider’s website to make sure they have your current contact information and can send you notifications. If uncertain which electric utility serves your area, visit https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/pages/find-your-utility.aspx.
• Keep cell phones fully charged in anticipation of an outage. Consider a car-charger for cell phones and other electronic devices.
• Plan for livestock water needs in the event well pumps lose power.
• Have a plan to relocate to an alternative location for power needs, or if you can, consider a backup generator.

During a power outage

• Avoid downed power lines, including anything near downed lines, at all costs.
• Stay clear of fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service in your community.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for emergency lighting. Do not use candles or other potential fire hazards.
• Turn off lights and unplug electric appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to help avoid a surge to the system when service is restored. After turning off all the lights, turn one light on to know when power has been restored.
• Use generators safely – Do not run the generator inside the home or garage or anywhere near a window or vent, as these spaces can capture deadly levels of carbon monoxide. Learn more about proper use of a generator to avoid hazardous conditions.
• Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs who might need additional assistance.
• Call your electricity service provider to report an outage; do not call 911.

Natural gas tips

• If required to evacuate, no need to shut off natural gas.
• If natural gas appliances do not operate properly once electricity is restored, call your natural gas service provider.
• If natural gas service is shut off, do not turn on yourself. Call your natural gas service provider to restore service.
• If you smell natural gas, evacuate immediately and call 911.

Stay informed and Be Prepared

• The best preparation is to not start a fire in the first place. Visit Keep Oregon Green’s website to learn more about how you can prevent wildfires.
• Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account and make sure all contact information is current so you can receive alerts and messages.
• Visit Oregon Alert to find your local alert system. Provide current contact details and sign up for wildfire alerts.
• Before traveling visit Trip Check for details on road closures and conditions.
• Check air quality in Oregon.
• Visit State of Oregon Fires Dashboard
• Be 2 Weeks Ready by preparing an emergency plan and enough supplies to sustain your household for at least two weeks after a disaster.