What Is a Public Safety Power Shutoff?
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), sometimes called a Fire Safety Shutoff (FSS), is a temporary, precautionary power outage used by electric utilities during extreme wildfire conditions. When weather, fuel conditions, and fire danger combine to create an elevated risk of wildfire, a utility may proactively de-energize portions of the electrical system to reduce the potential for power lines or electrical equipment to ignite a fire. Fall River Rural Electric Cooperative’s Wildfire Plan states that it may implement a Fire Safety Shutoff (FSS), also referred to as a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), during serious wildfire events within its service territory.
Why Utilities Use PSPS Programs
Public Safety Power Shutoffs are intended to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure when wildfire conditions become extreme. While power outages can be disruptive, utilities may determine that temporarily shutting off electricity is safer than continuing operations during periods of severe wildfire danger. Wildfire Plan | Fall River Rural Electric Cooperative notes that protecting members’ lives and property is of paramount importance and that fire safety shutoffs may be utilized during serious wildfire events.
Fall River Electric Cooperative’s Approach
Fall River Rural Electric Cooperative has incorporated Fire Safety Shutoffs into its wildfire mitigation strategy. The cooperative’s wildfire plan explains that power may be shut off in one or more areas of its service territory when wildfire conditions pose a significant threat. The cooperative also notes that transmission providers such as Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) and PacifiCorp may implement their own PSPS actions that could affect Fall River Electric members.
How a PSPS May Impact You
A Public Safety Power Shutoff can affect homes, businesses, farms, and critical services. During an extended outage, customers may experience:
- Loss of household electricity
- Inoperable well pumps and water systems
- Disruptions to irrigation equipment
- Loss of refrigeration and freezer operation
- Inoperable electric gates and garage door openers
- Challenges for individuals who rely on electrically powered medical equipment
- Reduced cellular and internet service in affected areas
These impacts are specifically identified by Fall River Electric as potential consequences of a Fire Safety Shutoff event.
How to Prepare
Everyone living in wildfire-prone areas should be prepared for the possibility of a Public Safety Power Shutoff. Recommended preparedness actions include:
- Maintain an emergency supply of food, water, and medications.
- Keep flashlights, batteries, and portable charging devices available.
- Create and maintain defensible space around structures.
- Develop a family emergency communication and evacuation plan.
- Consider backup power options such as generators or battery storage systems.
- Keep mobile devices charged during periods of elevated wildfire risk.
- Sign up for utility and emergency notification systems to receive outage information.
Fall River Electric encourages members to prepare for potential Fire Safety Shutoffs and to evaluate backup power options where appropriate.
Additional Information
For more information about wildfire mitigation and Fire Safety Shutoffs, visit the Fall River Rural Electric Cooperative Wildfire Plan webpage.