Cedar City, Delta, Milford and Enterprise Valley could experience a forced power outage this weekend if weather conditions and fire risks worsen. On Wednesday, June 24, Rocky Mountain Power issued a Public Safety Power Shutoff Watch to reduce the impacts of active wildfires.
In response to the Cottonwood Fire, the company is actively monitoring changes in weather conditions and their potential impact on the electric grid. Rocky Mountain Power is prepared to de-energize its power lines and equipment if conditions create an extreme risk of wildfire ignition. High winds and gusts could topple power lines, resulting in more fires. A complete power shutdown is a preventive measure to avoid these risks.
The PSPS will be in effect from 7 a.m. on Friday, June 26, through Sunday, June 28. According to the power company, the possible outage will affect more than 4,900 customers, all of whom have been alerted by phone, email and text message. Residents will be notified again if an outage becomes necessary or if the watch is no longer in effect.
To be ready for a power outage, Rocky Mountain Power offers the following tips:
- Charge all your appliances, phones, computers and external batteries.
- Fill up your car with gas.
- Learn how to open your garage door manually.
- Unplug all your household appliances.
- Prepare an emergency kit that includes flashlights with spare batteries, a radio, food, water, medications, a whistle, a first-aid kit and cash.
If a generator is available, use it outdoors at a safe distance from your home and with disconnect switches suitable for the generator.
For real-time outage information, check the Rocky Mountain Power’s outage map.
Author: Fanny Felixine
Editor: Michele Fogg
Photos from Adobe Stock
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