The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) and Salem Electric are taking additional safety precautions to protect the electrical system during a wildfire. As part of BPA's wildfire mitigation plan, a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) may be implemented when hazardous weather conditions threaten the ability to safely deliver power.
When could a Public Safety Power Shutoff Happen?
During fire season (typically May–October) there may be emergency situations or weather conditions that prompt BPA to de-energize transmission lines to minimize the risk of igniting or spreading wildfires.
What will happen during a Public Safety Power Shutoff?
BPA transmission lines that deliver electricity to our substations will be de-energized. As a result, Salem Electric members would be without power.
How will I be notified of a Public Safety Power Shutoff?
Salem Electric will notify and update members about the PSPS by phone, email, text message, social media, and website alerts. Members should verify that SE has their current email address and mobile phone number by accessing their account online, calling our office, or emailing EmergencyAlerts@SalemElectric.com with their name, service address, and phone number.
How long will a PSPS last?
Depending on the severity of the weather and/or wildfire conditions, power outages could last several hours or multiple days. Salem Electric members should be prepared to be without power for several days.
It is imperative that Salem Electric has your current email address and mobile phone number.
Please provide or update your email address and mobile number using one of the methods below:
Based on Salem Electric’s risk analysis of our urban landscape, a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) would not be implemented by Salem Electric; however, if Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) transmission lines are de-energized, Salem Electric members would lose power. Below are BPA’s five levels of wildfire mitigation efforts.
Year-round vegetation management and system maintenance to minimize risk.
During fire season and extreme weather conditions, implementation of enhanced weather monitoring and weather forecasting.
Implementation of additional procedures for system operations during fire season to address the threat of wildfires during dry and windy conditions.
If warranted, BPA’s PSPS decision making team will notify Salem Electric so that we can send alerts to members to prepare for a potential lack of power.
As a last resort, if conditions worsen, the Bonneville Power Administration will activate a Public Safety Power Shutoff to protect life, property, and the electric system. SE will attempt to notify members as quickly as possible.
