As Arizona's sweltering heat continues, residents of Yavapai County are now bracing for a different kind of disruption: a Public Safety Power Shutdown (PSPS) program. Implemented by Arizona Public Service (APS) Implemented in May and explicitly aimed at minimizing the risk of wildfires, PSPS can leave residents in high-risk areas without power if fire conditions are right. The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) is urging communities to start making emergency plans for every member of their household, including their four-legged friends, to avoid getting into a bad situation.

Those who own medically necessary equipment and require power cannot let their guard down. It is up to us, the residents, to follow YCOEM's advice and make sure our backup power is working and our emergency kits are well-stocked with essentials like food, water, and medicine. And if the power goes out, having a plan to manually work around the conveniences we now rely on electronically could be the difference between being overwhelmed or staying resourceful. For households that rely on well water, it's especially important to strategically plan how to sustain animals if a power outage occurs.

Community communication is expected to be intense during these PSPS events. YCOEM will work with APS to keep residents updated through their website as well as social media accounts and not to forget traditional local media. Locations that may experience PSPS outages include residential areas such as Boynton Pass Road and Iron Springs, as well as locations such as Mingus Academy Girls School and ranches along the Hassayampa River.

The dual efforts of the Arizona Emergency Information Network and APS ensured a seamless flow of information on PSPS protocols. All available on the websiteThe key is to closely monitor fire weather conditions, carefully consider when power needs to be shut off, and create a system to warn residents well in advance. Customers can be notified in advance through email, text, automated calls, and website updates up to four days before a power outage. Even if you plan to wait, knowing that power will be restored during the day, about 20 hours after an outage, unless there are repairs, can be a small comfort in uncertain times. If you're wondering if your area will be on the blackout list next, you can find out at the following link: APS Map.