Wildfire Safety - pnmprod
When Wildfires Threaten
We're here to help keep you safe.
What is a Public Safety Power Shutoff?
Extreme weather like strong winds along with dry conditions can increase the risk of wildfires in some areas. When the threat reaches dangerous levels, we may be forced to implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) to prevent power lines from becoming an ignition source. These temporary power shutoffs are a last resort to protect you, your family, and our communities.
We will never make this decision lightly. We understand how disruptive a power shutoff can be, but our priority must be keeping you safe-and making sure you have the information you need before, during, and after a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event.
Do you live in a High Fire Risk Area?
If you live in one of these areas, you may experience a PSPS. We would only implement as a last resort, but we want you to be prepared just in case.
Before a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)
If extreme weather makes a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) necessary, we will notify you in advance whenever possible:
- 4-7 days ahead: Monitoring extreme weather forecasts.
- 2-3 days ahead: Notifying customers via social media, PNM.com and local news. Notifying local and tribal governments, emergency officials, hospitals, and first responders.
- 1 day ahead: Directly notifying potentially affected customers via PNM emergency alerts.
- 0-4 hours ahead: Providing customers alerts before power is shut off.
During a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)
- Power is turned off to reduce wildfire risk.
- You receive updates via text, email, or phone call.
- We provide estimated restoration timelines as conditions evolve.
After a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)
- We inspect power lines and equipment for safety before restoring power.
- Our outage map will show restored areas in real time.
Be Prepared
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event can last for several hours or longer, depending on weather conditions. Take these steps to stay safe and minimize disruption:
Update Your Contact Information
Make sure PNM has your current contact details to receive important Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) alerts.
Register for LifeWatch
Does someone in your home rely on medical equipment that requires power? Enroll in LifeWatch Medical Needs Program to receive priority Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) notifications.
Prepare an Emergency Power Outage Kit
Have essential supplies ready in case of an extended power outage.
Sign Up for Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Alerts
Text #ALERT to 78766 or call 888-DIAL-PNM (888-342-5766).
Wildfire Safety for All
With wildfires becoming an increasing threat in New Mexico, we can all play a role in reducing the risk.
- Trim trees and vegetation around your home.
- Clear gutters and debris to prevent fire spread.
- Keep an emergency power outage kit ready in case of evacuation.
- Identify primary and alternate evacuation routes from your home.
- Create a communication plan with 3+ contacts willing to assist you during a power outage.
- Sign up for county emergency alerts to stay informed.
Answers to Your Questions
What is a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)?
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is when PNM is forced by extreme weather conditions to turn off power on parts of its system in order to avoid starting a wildfire.
Why is a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) happening?
The Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is used to keep communities safe by preventing electrical equipment from becoming a possible ignition source. Strong winds, dry conditions, and fire threats can turn power lines into ignition sources. A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) helps prevent wildfires by shutting off power when these conditions pose a severe risk.
What should I expect before a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event?
PNM monitors extreme weather and will notify you in advance whenever possible:
4-7 days ahead: Monitoring forecasts and preparing for potential shutoffs.
2-3 days ahead: Alerting emergency officials, first responders, hospitals, and tribal governments.
1 day ahead: Notifying customers with details.
0-4 hours ahead: Providing customers with alerts before power is shut off.
What should I expect during and after a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event?
During a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS): Power is shut off to reduce wildfire risk. PNM customers to receive updates.
After a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS): PNM crews inspect power lines and equipment for safety before restoring power. You will be notified once restoration begins and when power is fully restored.
How will I be notified about a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event?
PNM will notify you via text, email, or phone call based on your preference noted in your PNM account. Updates are also posted on our website, outage map, and social media channels.
Who decides when a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event is activated?
PNM works closely with emergency partners in New Mexico to monitor fire risks and weather conditions. PNM ultimately makes the decision to implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), always prioritizing safety. PNM will determine if a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is required to keep communities safe and prevent electrical equipment from becoming a possible ignition source.
When will PNM call a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event?
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is triggered when weather conditions create a significant fire risk, including:
- High winds that could cause power lines to arc or fall
- Low humidity that increases fire spread potential
- Dry vegetation that acts as fuel
- On-the-ground observations of fire hazards
- Fire threats to electric infrastructure.
Who is most affected by Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) outages?
Customers in High Fire Risk Areas (HFAs) are more likely to experience a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). However, power grid interconnectivity means outages may also impact areas outside of HFAs.
How long will my power be out?
Power will remain off until conditions are safe for restoration. Our teams inspect equipment before turning power back on. While restoration typically takes a few hours, it can take longer depending on weather and system damage.
Power Outage Safety
If a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) happens, the Red Cross advises these simple steps to keep your family safe, protect your home, and reduce stress.
Before a Power Outage
Prepare in advance with these must-haves:
- Cooler(s) and ice to preserve food.
- A digital food thermometer to be sure food is cold enough for safe use.
- A full gas tank in your car.
- Emergency Power Outage Kit: Download the full Red Cross list here
- Water - One gallon per person per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
- Food - Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare meals.
- Flashlights and batteries - Avoid candles due to fire risk.
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio - Stay informed.
- Medications and first aid kit - Keep a 7-day supply of prescriptions.
- Cell phone and chargers - Consider a backup power bank.
- Important documents - Copies of insurance, medical records, and emergency contacts.
- Cash and personal hygiene items - In case of extended outages.
- If someone in your home relies on electric-powered medical equipment, have a backup power source and enroll in PNM's LifeWatch program for priority notifications. Register for LifeWatch
During a Power Outage
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Food stays cold 4 hours in the fridge and up to 48 hours in a full freezer.
- Turn off/unplug electronics and appliances to prevent damage when power returns.
- Stay off the roads if traffic lights are out.
When Power is Restored
- Stay away from downed power lines-report them immediately!
- Throw out any food that's been above 40°F for 2+ hours. Test it with that food thermometer.
Carbon Monoxide Alert!
DO NOT USE generators, grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices INSIDE! These alternate sources for electricity, heating, or cooking can put you at risk for electric shock, fire, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home. If the alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location.
Get more on preparing for power outages at RedCross.org
