SW Riverside News

In the coming days, certain areas in the district may face Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) due to anticipated high Santa Ana winds and increased wildfire risk, particularly in rural communities. The PSPS strategy aims to mitigate wildfire risks by potentially impacting electric infrastructure serving local communities.

Residents of SDG&E and SoCal Edison are advised to check if their community might be affected by these power shutoffs through the respective utility websites. Staying informed is crucial during extreme weather events, and official electricity or utility provider websites are recommended for updates on potential emergency shutoffs and safety information.

The 32nd District benefits from dedicated emergency service personnel who respond swiftly to wildfires and other emergencies. However, residents should prepare themselves and their households for possible wildfires. Important considerations include having a plan for power outages with necessary supplies like generators, flashlights, batteries, and ice packs for perishables; knowing evacuation routes with alternatives; having copies of important documents ready; arranging pet accommodations since most shelters do not accept domestic animals; and establishing communication plans with out-of-area contacts in case of impacted phone or internet access.

Additional steps include avoiding the use of power equipment, ensuring at least 100 feet of defensible space around homes, and calling 911 immediately if a downed power line is spotted. ReadyforWildfire.org offers resources for creating a suitable wildfire action plan. Signing up for CALFIRE’s incident updates can provide timely emergency information, while state-wide alerts are available at calalerts.org. Local alerts can be accessed through county websites including Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and San Diego County.

Being prepared is essential for safety during these conditions.

"Thank you and stay safe."