Be Prepared: Wildfires and Power Outages
Be Prepared - Wildfires and Power Outages
Utah is experiencing one of its most active and destructive fire seasons yet, and we are still early on in the fire season. As we experienced last weekend, wildfire risk can coincide with power outages. As we head into the heat of summer, we recommend Alta residents, businesses, and community members be prepared for the risk of wildfire and the increased likelihood of intermittent and/or extended power outages.
Be Prepared for Wildfire:
- Clean roofs/gutters of dry leaves, pine needles, and other debris
- Create defensible space around your home
- Sign-Up for Chipper Days, currently scheduled for September 16 & 17
- Don’t use fireworks (fireworks are illegal in the Town of Alta)
- Obey all current fire restrictions
- Use your Fire Sense
- Call 911 to report a wildfire
Be Prepared to Evacuate:
- Make a go-bag with essential supplies
- Create and practice a family communication plan
- Know how to shut off utilities including gas, electricity, and water
- Keep your vehicle gas tank at least half-full
Be Prepared for Power Outages:
- Add electrical power and natural gas company phone numbers in your emergency contacts
- Keep flashlights and batteries in easy access areas
- Have emergency chargers for mobile phones or other communication equipment
- Create a contingency plan for keeping perishable food from spoiling
- Stock up on non-perishable, calorie-dense foods that don't require cooking and bottled water
- Get power back-ups for any life-saving electronic medical equipment
- Consider getting a backup electric generator for your home
- Stock up on fuel for generators
- Sign-up for real-time alerts from Rocky Mountain Power about outages in the area
Additional Resources
Rocky Mountain Power Wildfire Safety