New State Resources for Those Impacted by Fires, Power Shutoffs

Dear District 9 residents,

Another significant wind event and Red Flag fire danger warning is forecast to begin tomorrow afternoon, Tuesday, Oct. 29. As a result, PG&E may implement Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) in substantial parts of Alameda and Contra Costa counties.

The new power shutoffs may start late Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 29, and continue through Wednesday, Oct. 30, or longer, depending on weather conditions. The best way to check if your residence or business will be impacted is to go to: https://psps.ss.pge.com/ and enter your address.

Both Alameda and Contra Costa counties have alert systems that will provide you with up-to-date and real-time information on the power outage and any services affected.

• If you live in Alameda County, sign up here: https://member.everbridge.net/index/453003085612570#/login
• If you live in Contra Costa County, sign up here: https://cwsalerts.com/registration/

There are also new resources that the state has set up that may be helpful to you or your family. First, Gov. Gavin Newsom has declared a State of Emergency for the entire state. That action suspends a number of rules and regulations so that residents and businesses impacted by the wildfires and power shutoffs can, for example, get unemployment benefits more quickly if a job loss occurs or get more time to pay fines or fees. Click here (PDF) to see what the State of Emergency declaration provides.

Another resource is a statewide nonemergency hotline to help medically vulnerable residents and health and community care facilities find resources they may need during power shutoffs. The hotline number is (833) 284-3473. And finally, the state has created a website for information on power outages and wildfire recovery: http://response.ca.gov/

Here are sites with guidance on how to prepare for power shutoffs and what to do during a shutoff:

• PG&E info on preparing for power outages can be viewed here: safetyactioncenter.pge.com.
• Alameda County's here https://www.acgov.org/ready/
• Contra Costa County's here: https://cchealth.org/emergencies/preparedness.php
• And tips for seniors and people with disabilities, here: (PDF)

PG&E has also opened support centers where residents can go to access services, charge cellphones, or get other help. Click here for details.

I hope this information helps you and your family stay healthy and safe during these power shutoffs.

 Sincerely,

Nancy Skinner
Senator, 9th District