Public Safety Power Shutoffs

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During wildfire season (typically June through November), PG&E may turn off electricity in designated areas when severe weather is forecasted to threaten a portion of the electric system (such as Red Flag Warnings, low humidity, high winds, and dry conditions). These precautions are called Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).

How the City of Livermore prepares for a PSPS

The City of Livermore is working with PG&E to ensure we receive as much advance notice as possible so we can prepare and initiate our response. Here is how we prepare for PSPS and what we will do during an event:

Opening Cooling Facilities:

If a PSPS occurs during extreme high temperatures, the City of Livermore may open a cooling facility at the Robert Livermore Community Center. Check the News section of the City of Livermore website for cooling facility announcements.

Maintaining Water and Sewer Service:

The City of Livermore Water Resources Division relies on PG&E’s electricity to power its pump stations and the Livermore Water Reclamation Plant. Electricity is necessary to maintain Livermore Municipal Water’s drinking water pressure and treat the City’s wastewater.

Whenever Red Flag Warnings are issued, Livermore Municipal Water fills and maintains water tanks near capacity. During a PSPS event, the Water Resources Division will switch to backup generators to power pump stations, the Livermore Water Reclamation Plant, and other key facilities to keep drinking water flowing and keep treating wastewater.

Vegetation Management:

Every year, the City of Livermore prepares for the fire season by completing vegetation management and weed abatement activities in open space areas that border residential neighborhoods and around city-owned facilities, creeks, parks, and right of ways. These activities include mowing, weeding, and trimming and are performed by City staff and contractors.

How you can prepare for a PSPS

Before a PSPS Event:

Make sure your contact information is updated with PG&E and your water service provider
- Livermore Municipal Water or Cal Water
Sign up for AC Alerts to receive Alameda County emergency information through phone, email, and text message.
Visit Livermore Emergency Kit site or Ready.gov Emergency Kit to help you create your kit withe the necessary supplies your household needs for any type of emergency.
Clear your property of excess, dead, and highly flammable vegetation.
- Trim grass and vegetation at least 30 feet around your home.
- Learn how to create a defensible space around your home.
If you have a backup generator, test it to ensure it’s ready to operate safely.

If you are Affected by a PSPS Event:

Shut off your irrigation and reduce your indoor water use.
- Minimizing your water use during a PSPS event to ensure that there will be as much water as possible available for firefighting.
Stay tuned; there will be ongoing updates through social media, news media, and on the City of Livermore's website.

After a PSPS Event:

Restock your emergency kit supplies to prepare for the next PSPS event.
Remember to reset your irrigation controller while resetting other electronics to prevent overwatering.
Check regularly for updates from the City of Livermore and PG&E.