Public Safety Power Shutoff possible as HECO monitors conditions

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Residents on the west side of Maui and Hawaii Island could possibly have their power temporarily shut off to prevent wildfires.

Hawaiian Electric is monitoring high winds and dry conditions in the Kawaihae and Waikoloa areas on Hawaii Island, and in West Maui and parts of Omaopio and Pulehu in Kahului.

Since the combination of high winds and dry conditions could lead to an increased wildfire risk, HECO may cut power in areas with high exposure, as a Public Safety Power Shutoff, or PSPS.

HECO will continue to track weather conditions over the next 24 to 48 hours.

HECO crews are deploying spotters to monitor conditions and look out for fire risks and coordinating with state and county officials about a possible emergency response.

Customers in those high-risk areas are urged to start making a plan and prepare for the possibility of extended outages.

HECO notes that outages not related to the PSPS program could still occur due to other conditions.

For more information, call HECO’s PSPS hotline at (844) 483-8666, or click here to learn more about the PSPS program.

HECO recommends the following tips to plan ahead.

• Check emergency equipment, such as flashlights and lanterns, emergency generators, battery-operated radios, and light sticks.
• Have a battery-powered radio on hand to listen for updates on weather conditions and possible PSPS outage implementation.
• If someone in your home is dependent on electrically powered, life-sustaining medical equipment, check backup facilities.
• If you need to go to the hospital or other emergency shelter, remember to take your medical equipment and medications with you to the facility.
• Plan where to go if an evacuation is ordered.
• If you plan to use a portable generator, make sure it is placed in a well-ventilated area outside the home, and follow all instructions in the manufacturer’s manual.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings to keep food fresher longer if power goes out.
• Turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment, especially sensitive electronics, to prevent damage from surges when power is restored.
• Do not venture out in the dark. You might not see a downed power line that could be energized and dangerous.
• Avoid standing water and debris.
• If you see a downed power line, assume it is energized and stay at least 30 feet away.

For emergency assistance call 911. For HECO, call the Trouble Line:

• Oahu: (855) 304-1212
• Hawaii Island: (855) 304-9191
• Maui County: (855) 304-8181

Stay informed through news outlets and the following resources.

• Hawaiian Electric website
• Twitter: @HwnElectric; @mauielectric; @hielectriclight
• Facebook
• Mobile app available on Apple App and Google Play stores