PGE threatens to turn power off during high-wind episodes – are you prepared?

Marin, The East Bay, and the North Bay. What happens when they turn off San Francisco? Are you ready? 

Living in the North Bay, we have been subjected to threats of and actual power outages based on the weather conditions.  More warnings and threats to come. I filled up five one-gallon containers with water, checked all of my flashlight batteries, bought ice for when the freezer started to thaw, and charged my computers and phone.   In my case, the power never went out, but many people around me were without power for several days. When PG&E decided to turn the power back on, it came back on over several days… it isn’t instant Lights, Action, Power!   So, just a quick reminder to make sure that you are ready, because PG&E’s new system for fire-suppression is going to become the new normal. 

1. Locate your flashlights AND make sure the batteries are working. Place them where they are easy to locate and where you need them most.
2. Charge, charge, charge those batteries of smart phones, laptops, and any other device (hearing aid powering stations) that you may need. Check your emergency alert devices as well to understand if they will respond without electricity (landline vs. internet connection)
3. Make sure you have gas in your car. Don’t let it go below ½ full.
4. Have water on hand. If you have glass dispensers, fill and chill them now.
5. Review your individual emergency plan. These are important for major emergencies, but having your power out for a few days, could cause other unplanned issues. Where can you go if the power is out for a while? What    do you need if you want to stay at home? 
6. If your phone goes down when the electricity goes out, is there someone who will check in on you? Call a friend or family member now and decide upon a plan.
7. Have some cash on hand – make sure some are lower denominations ($1, $5, $10’s)