Prepare for utility interruption
Prepare for utility interruption
Why?
We are blessed with reliable utility services, but increasingly extreme weather events and aging infrastructure can lead to outages. What will we do when they go down?
Prepare for power outages
PG&E may shut off the power anywhere in Sonoma County based on conditions such as Red Flag Warnings, wind, low humidity, or fuel loads. Power could be out for a number of days. Prepare in advance and know what to do when it happens.
Resources:
Use the “Power Outages” pamphlet from the County of Sonoma in your “Evac Pac” or download it here [PDF]
See details and watch this video from the County of Sonoma
Know when and how to shut off utilities
Natural gas/propane service: In an emergency, your gas can be turned off at the main gas service shutoff valve. If you shut off the gas, there may be a considerable delay before PG&E can turn your service back on.
So only shut off the gas if one or more of the following is true. You:
Smell gas
Hear gas escaping
See a broken gas line
Suspect a gas leak
Electrical service: Know the location of your main electric panel. In an emergency, you can turn off your electric supply to your whole home or office through the main switch.