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APS offers power outage preparedness tips for wildfire emergencies
As wildfires affect communities in our state, Arizona Public Service Co. (APS) is working closely with emergency management agencies and when needed, is prepared to take power lines out of service to protect the public and first responders.
While providing reliable electric service and promptly restoring power after an outage are top priorities, the safety of our communities and first responders takes precedence. During elevated fire conditions, we may have to prolong power outages until crews can perform visual inspections of lines and remove any vegetation or potential hazards near electric equipment. In the event of an active fire, power lines may be temporarily taken out of service to protect firefighters, which could result in outages that might last longer than usual.
Before emergencies occur, customers are encouraged to prepare for a potential loss of electricity.
Get ready now:
- Download the APS app or visit the aps.com/outagecenter for information on how to be prepared for an outage, report an outage and view the APS outage map.
- Subscribe to APS outage alerts to receive text/email updates about power outages.
- Update your contact information with APS to ensure you receive important information.
- Create a power outage safety kit that includes items like a flashlight, extra batteries, portable cell phone charger, battery-powered radio, first-aid kit and water.
- If you have an automatic garage door, check the instructions to learn how to open the door manually.
- If you use life-sustaining medical equipment that requires electricity, register for the APS Medical Care Program at 602-371-7171 (800-253-9405). This alerts APS of your needs in the event of an outage.
Ways to stay safe during a power outage:
- Keep your phone fully charged. Keep a portable charger and car charger handy.
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Food will stay cold for up to 4 hours in the fridge and longer in the freezer.
- Turn off and unplug electrical equipment and appliances to avoid electrical spikes when power is restored. After power is restored, wait 5-10 minutes to plug in and turn on major appliances and electrical equipment.
- Do not try to repair electrical problems on your own, please call APS or a certified electrician.
We take a year-round approach to prepare for wildfires, including:
- Reducing fire risk by clearing space, including vegetation or other flammable materials, around our equipment. Trees too close to power lines could pose a fire risk.
- Maintaining our electrical infrastructure by protecting and strengthening equipment.
- Working with first responder agencies throughout Arizona to create response plans and coordinate in the event of fires.
Visit aps.com/wildfiresafety for more information about how to prepare for and stay safe during elevated fire conditions.
APS serves more than 1.3 million homes and businesses in 11 of Arizona’s 15 counties, and is a leader in delivering affordable, clean and reliable energy in the Southwest. The company is committed to serving customers with 100% clean power by 2050. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW).
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