Power is now restored to all Arizona Public Service (APS) customers impacted by the Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) that began Wednesday, April 22 at 9:00 a.m. in high fire-risk communities in the Flagstaff area. APS activated the emergency measure to help prevent electrical equipment from starting or contributing to a wildfire during extreme weather conditions. When conditions improved, APS crews patrolled power lines to ensure there was no damage and no debris impacting the lines. Once crews confirmed it was safe to restore service, they turned on the electricity to those lines, energizing the final sections by 6:45 p.m.

“We care greatly about the safety of our customers, and we do not take the decision to shut off power lightly. A Public Safety Power Shutoff is only utilized when absolutely necessary and we are grateful for the patience and understanding of our customers as we took extra steps to help protect the communities we serve,” said Robbie Houle, APS Northern Division Manager of Transmission and Distribution. “We appreciate our partnerships with public safety officials and community leaders from Flagstaff, Coconino County and the Grand Canyon as we worked together during this period of extreme fire weather conditions.”

APS created its Public Safety Power Shutoff program in 2024 as part of its Comprehensive Wildfire Mitigation Plan. This is the first time weather conditions were extreme enough to trigger a PSPS event.

• Our team of meteorologists utilized more than a dozen of APS’s weather stations to track high risk weather conditions around the clock and monitor wind speeds, humidity levels and terrain to make calculated safety shutoff decisions.
• APS works year-round to reduce wildfire risk. These efforts include inspecting more than 38,000 miles of powerlines, clearing hazardous and overgrown brush from around electrical equipment, investing in the latest fire mitigation technology and working closely with first responders and fire officials. Today’s unusually strong winds, very dry vegetation, and low humidity were more typical of early summer than April, created a significant risk of wildfire igniting and spreading rapidly.
• Field crews assessed miles of power lines utilizing trucks, drones and UTVs in rough terrain to inspect for damage before re-energizing.

While power has been restored, we strongly encourage customers to stay prepared with an emergency plan and supplies, register for alerts from their local emergency management office and stay connected to alerts from APS by making sure their contact information is up to date. Customers can update their contact information by contacting the APS Customer Care Center at 602-371-7171 or 800-253-9405 or online by signing into aps.com.

Why did APS call a PSPS today?
The decision to call a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is not one we take lightly. APS will only initiate a PSPS when extreme fire risk conditions are present. We use data to guide our decision-making and carefully consider a number of factors before taking that step.

What factors does APS consider when determining whether to initiate a Public Safety Power Shutoff?
APS considers several factors, including severe fire risk conditions such as wind speed, wind gusts, humidity levels, available fuels and terrain, all of which influence the potential for a wildfire to start and how quickly it could spread. We also rely on ongoing assessments from APS’s Fire Mitigation Team, specialists and meteorologists, along with real-time assessments and forecasting using advanced fire modeling software.

What made today’s conditions especially concerning?
What made this situation especially concerning was the convergence of multiple high-risk factors at the same time. We saw unusually strong winds, very dry vegetation, and low humidity more typical of early summer rather than April. Together, those conditions significantly increase the potential for a wildfire to ignite and spread rapidly.

How did APS choose those communities?
The areas included in the Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) were identified based on the specific power lines and electrical equipment facing the highest wildfire risk under the forecasted conditions. That includes factors such as extreme wind, humidity, vegetation, terrain, and how likely a fire could start and rapidly spread in those areas. Our goal is to keep any shutoff as targeted and limited as possible while helping reduce the risk of wildfire.

Could APS have given more notice that a PSPS was likely?
These decisions are driven by rapidly changing weather and wildfire risk conditions. In this case, the forecast worsened significantly in a short period of time, and APS provided notice as soon as we had enough confidence in the conditions to make that decision responsibly. We strive to provide as much advance notice as possible, and when conditions escalate quickly, safety has to come first.

How can people who depend on electricity for life-saving medical equipment prepare?
We understand a disruption in service can be especially serious for customers who depend on electricity for medical needs. Our Medical Care Program provides additional notifications for customers and connects them with services to support their needs. If you or someone in your household uses critical medical equipment that requires electricity, you may qualify for our Medical Care Program. Simply download and complete the application on aps.com and mail it to APS with a signature from your licensed medical professional.

Learn more about APS’s year-round efforts to maintain a safe and reliable electric system and Public Safety Power Shutoffs at aps.com/psps.

For safety due to extreme fire risk, APS shut off power today to approximately 6,000 customers in limited, high fire-risk communities in the Flagstaff area to help prevent electrical equipment from starting or contributing to a wildfire. APS meteorologists have tracked extreme, rapidly changing weather and fire risk conditions and have determined that extreme winds, with gusts nearing 60 miles per hour, coupled with dry terrain and other factors, pose elevated wildfire risk. Since conditions have not improved, APS has shut off the power proactively and temporarily to help prevent wildfires

How long will the power be out and who is impacted?
A limited and targeted group of APS customers are experiencing a temporary, planned safety outage that started today at 9 a.m. Impacted customers were directly notified of the planned outage, and reside in eastern Flagstaff and some surrounding areas in the following communities:

• Doney Park
• Timberline
• Fernwood
• Mormon Lake
• Cosnino
• Sunset Crater
• Walnut Canyon
• Valle
• Some locations in and around Grand Canyon National Park, excluding Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar and the railway station.

Power is projected to be out for approximately 12-24 hours; however, weather conditions can change and affect outage times if damage is caused to APS power lines and equipment and repairs are necessary. The actual restoration time will be determined based on weather conditions. Location maps and other information for PSPS customers can be found at aps.com/psps.

What can I do to stay safe and informed?

• Monitor the APS Outage Map at aps.com/outages for updates on power restoration times. APS customers will also receive outage alerts via text, phone and email keeping them informed of when their power will be reconnected.
• Ensure your contact information with APS is up to date. Sign in to your aps.com account or call the APS Customer Care Center at (602) 371-7171 to update your email, text and phone numbers so APS can reach you in the event of an outage.
• Alert APS if you use life-supporting medical equipment that requires electricity, call 602-371-7171 or 800-253-9405 to register for our Medical Care program.
• Sign up for your county’s emergency alerts. If you live in an area affected by APS’s Public Safety Power Shutoff program, here are those links, by county:
  • Coconino County: coconino.az.gov/ready
  • Gila County: readygila.com
  • Navajo County: navajocountyaz.gov/ready
  • Pinal County: www.pinal.gov/pens
  • Yavapai County: yavapaiready.gov
• The city of Flagstaff’s Murdoch Community Center (203 E Brannen Ave) will be open to residents impacted by the PSPS from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to get information, charge medical devices, phones or small electronics, refrigerate medicine, or grab a bottle of water.
• Ice and water distribution information for impacted customers (while supplies last):
  • Ice/water distribution is underway at Flagstaff Mall, near Hobby Lobby, 4650 US 89
  • Ice can be picked up from Valle Travel Stop, 317 AZ 64
  • Ice/Water will be available at Mormon Lake Fire Station, 1067 Mormon Lake Road
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food and perishable items cold. Residential customers affected by this PSPS outage can be reimbursed for the purchase of up to 40 pounds of bagged ice OR 20 pounds of dry ice to help preserve food.
• Unplug all unnecessary equipment and appliances to prevent electrical spikes. Wait at least five minutes after the power returns to turn on major appliances and equipment.
• If you see a downed line, stay at least 100 feet away, call 911 and then call APS (800-253-9405).

 Why is APS proactively shutting off power?
APS’s fire mitigation experts and meteorologists assessed weather conditions in the impacted areas and determined the need to proactively shut off power to help prevent wildfires in the areas of highest risk. Primary factors for concern are forecasted wind gusts nearing 60 miles per hour. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for northeastern Arizona.

How do planned safety outages protect Arizona?
PSPS is a tool in APS’s robust wildfire mitigation toolbox that will be utilized in extreme weather to prevent electrical equipment from starting or contributing to a wildfire. The length of a shutoff will depend on extreme weather behavior and the extent of damage to electrical lines and equipment, if any. APS will do everything it can to minimize disruptions to customers while prioritizing safety.

APS meteorologists and fire mitigation experts perform fire modeling and track wind speeds, humidity, lightning and other weather patterns to determine when a safety outage is necessary. For example, if wind speeds are high during hot and dry temperatures, debris blown by the wind can strike electrical equipment and cause a wildfire. By shutting off power temporarily, APS can help protect threatened communities and maintain a strong energy grid that can serve customers reliably once it is safe to reconnect power.

What else does APS do to help prevent wildfires?
APS works year-round to reduce wildfire risk. These efforts include inspecting more than 38,000 miles of powerlines, clearing hazardous and overgrown brush from around electrical equipment, investing in the latest fire mitigation technology and working closely with first responders and fire officials.

For safety due to extreme fire risk, APS will shut off power today at 9 a.m. to approximately 6,000 customers in limited, high fire-risk communities in the Flagstaff area and, due to forecasted worsening weather conditions, an additional 150 customers farther north in some locations in and around Grand Canyon National Park, excluding Grand Canyon Village, to help prevent electrical equipment from starting or contributing to a wildfire. Extreme winds, with gusts forecasted to reach nearly 60 miles per hour near critical electrical infrastructure, coupled with dry terrain and other factors pose elevated wildfire risk. APS meteorologists and fire mitigation specialists continue to closely monitor conditions and coordinate with local emergency management.

Since conditions have not improved, APS will begin the Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) at approximately 9:00 a.m. today.

How long will the power be out and who is impacted?
APS has directly notified the limited and targeted group of about 6,000 APS customers impacted, who are located in eastern Flagstaff and some surrounding areas in the following communities:

• Doney Park
• Timberline
• Fernwood
• Mormon Lake
• Cosnino
• Sunset Crater
• Walnut Canyon
• Valle
• Some locations in and around Grand Canyon National Park, excluding Grand Canyon Village

Power is projected to be out for approximately 12-24 hours; however, weather conditions can change and affect outage times if damage is caused to APS power lines and equipment and repairs are necessary. The actual restoration time will be determined based on weather conditions. Location maps and other information for PSPS customers can be found at aps.com/psps.

What can I do to stay safe and informed?

• Monitor the APS Outage Map at aps.com/outages for updates on power restoration times. APS customers will also receive outage alerts via text, phone and email keeping them informed of when their power will be reconnected.
• Ensure your contact information with APS is up to date. Sign in to your aps.com account or call the APS Customer Care Center at (602) 371-7171 to update your email, text and phone numbers so APS can reach you in the event of an outage.
• Alert APS if you use life-supporting medical equipment that requires electricity, call 602-371-7171 or 800-253-9405 to register for our Medical Care program.
• Sign up for your county’s emergency alerts. If you live in an area affected by APS’s Public Safety Power Shutoff program, here are those links, by county:
  • Coconino County: coconino.az.gov/ready
  • Gila County: readygila.com
  • Navajo County: navajocountyaz.gov/ready
  • Pinal County: www.pinal.gov/pens
  • Yavapai County: yavapaiready.gov

What should I do during a planned safety outage?

• The city of Flagstaff’s Murdoch Community Center (203 E Brannen Ave) will be open to residents impacted by the PSPS from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to get information, charge medical devices, phones or small electronics, refrigerate medicine, or grab a bottle of water.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food and perishable items cold. Ice distribution information will be available on the APS Outage Map. Residential customers affected by this PSPS outage can be reimbursed for the purchase of up to 40 pounds of bagged ice OR 20 pounds of dry ice to help preserve food. The APS Outage Map indicates where to send receipts. Unplug all unnecessary equipment and appliances to prevent electrical spikes. Wait at least five minutes after the power returns to turn on major appliances and equipment. If you see a downed line, stay at least 100 feet away, call 911 and then call APS (800-253-9405).
• Unplug all unnecessary equipment and appliances to prevent electrical spikes. Wait at least five minutes after the power returns to turn on major appliances and equipment.
• If you see a downed line, stay at least 100 feet away, call 911 and then call APS (800-253-9405).

Why is APS proactively shutting off power?
APS’s fire mitigation experts and meteorologists assessed weather conditions in the impacted areas and determined the need to proactively shut off power to help prevent wildfires in the areas of highest risk. Primary factors for concern are forecasted wind gusts nearing 60 miles per hour. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for northeastern Arizona.

How do planned safety outages protect Arizona?
PSPS is a tool in APS’s robust wildfire mitigation toolbox that will be utilized in extreme weather to prevent electrical equipment from starting or contributing to a wildfire. The length of a shutoff will depend on extreme weather behavior and the extent of damage to electrical lines and equipment, if any. APS will do everything it can to minimize disruptions to customers while prioritizing safety.

APS meteorologists and fire mitigation experts perform fire modeling and track wind speeds, humidity, lightning and other weather patterns to determine when a safety outage is necessary. For example, if wind speeds are high during hot and dry temperatures, debris blown by the wind can strike electrical equipment and cause a wildfire. By shutting off power temporarily, APS can help protect threatened communities and maintain a strong energy grid that can serve customers reliably once it is safe to reconnect power.

What else does APS do to help prevent wildfires?
APS works year-round to reduce wildfire risk. These efforts include inspecting more than 38,000 miles of powerlines, clearing hazardous and overgrown brush from around electrical equipment, investing in the latest fire mitigation technology and working closely with first responders and fire officials.

For safety due to extreme fire risk, APS may need to temporarily shut off power tomorrow, April 22 as early as 9 a.m., in limited, high fire-risk communities located in the Flagstaff area to help prevent electrical equipment from starting or contributing to a wildfire. APS meteorologists and fire mitigation specialists are tracking extreme, rapidly changing weather and fire risk conditions and have determined that extreme winds, with gusts nearing 70 miles per hour, coupled with dry terrain and other factors, pose elevated wildfire risk.

Who will be impacted?
We continue to monitor as weather patterns may change. For safety, a limited and targeted group of approximately 5,800 APS customers may experience a temporary, planned safety outage Wednesday, April 22. Customers who would be impacted are in eastern Flagstaff and some surrounding areas in the following communities:

• Doney Park
• Timberline
• Fernwood
• Mormon Lake
• Cosnino
• Sunset Crater
• Walnut Canyon
• Valle

APS is providing advanced notifications to these customers to their preferred method of contact selected on their account. We are also sharing information on how to prepare and stay informed. If weather conditions improve, the planned safety shutoff may be canceled. APS will keep potentially impacted customers informed. We are also working closely with local emergency management.

Customers can monitor the APS Outage Map tomorrow for outage times. It’s important to note, weather conditions can change and affect restoration if APS power lines and equipment are damaged and repairs are necessary. Location maps, community resources and other information for PSPS customers can be found at aps.com/psps.

What should I do before a planned safety outage?

• Ensure your contact information with APS is up to date. Sign in to your aps.com account or call the APS Customer Care Center at (602) 371-7171 to update your email, text and phone numbers so APS can reach you in the event of an outage.
• Alert APS if you use life-supporting medical equipment that requires electricity, call 602-371-7171 or 800-253-9405 to register for our Medical Care program.
• Sign up for your county’s emergency alerts. If you live in an area affected by APS’s Public Safety Power Shutoff program, here are those links, by county:
  • Coconino County: coconino.az.gov/ready
  • Gila County: readygila.com
  • Navajo County: navajocountyaz.gov/ready
  • Pinal County: www.pinal.gov/pens
  • Yavapai County: yavapaiready.gov

 What should I do during a planned safety outage?

• Monitor the APS Outage Map at aps.com/outages for updates on power restoration times. APS customers will also receive outage alerts via text, phone and email keeping them informed of when their power will be reconnected.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food and perishable items cold. Ice distribution information will be available on the APS Outage Map.
• Unplug all unnecessary equipment and appliances to prevent electrical spikes. Wait at least five minutes after the power returns to turn on major appliances and equipment.
• If you see a downed line, stay at least 100 feet away, call 911 and then call APS (800-253-9405).

 Why would APS proactively shut off power?
APS’s fire mitigation experts and meteorologists are assessing weather conditions in the impacted areas and may need to proactively shut off power to help prevent wildfires in the areas of highest risk. Primary factors for concern are forecasted wind gusts nearing 70 miles per hour. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for northeastern Arizona.

How do planned safety outages protect Arizona?
PSPS is a tool in APS’s comprehensive wildfire mitigation toolbox that will be utilized in extreme weather to help prevent electrical equipment from starting or contributing to a wildfire. The length of a shutoff will depend on extreme weather behavior and the extent of damage to electrical lines and equipment, if any. APS will do everything it can to minimize disruptions to customers while prioritizing safety.

APS meteorologists and fire mitigation experts perform fire modeling and track wind speeds, humidity, lightning and other weather patterns to determine when a safety outage is necessary. For example, if wind speeds are high during hot and dry temperatures, debris blown by the wind can strike electrical equipment and cause a wildfire. By shutting off power temporarily, APS can help protect threatened communities and maintain a strong energy grid that can serve customers reliably once it is safe to reconnect power.

What else does APS do to help prevent wildfires?
APS works year-round to reduce wildfire risk. These efforts include inspecting more than 38,000 miles of powerlines, clearing hazardous and overgrown brush from around electrical equipment, investing in the latest fire mitigation technology and working closely with first responders and fire officials. 

As summer approaches and dry conditions persist, wildfire risk is heightened across parts of the state. Arizona Public Service (APS) fire mitigation specialists, foresters and meteorologists are working to support customers in rural and forested communities by tracking weather patterns and preparing the energy grid to maintain reliable power. 

“Reducing wildfire risk is a daily priority,” said Scott Bordenkircher, APS Director of Forestry and Fire Mitigation. “Our teams forecast weather and environmental factors, and we work closely with firefighters and emergency managers to make safety-focused and data-driven decisions. Our goal is to help protect you and keep the electricity you count on flowing, especially during extreme weather.”

For more than 10 years, APS has invested in efforts to reduce wildfire risk as part of a comprehensive wildfire mitigation program. Here is how customers benefit from our proactive planning:

• Detection: APS artificial intelligence (AI) smoke detection cameras are deployed to spot early signs of wildfires. APS AI cameras have detected smoke within minutes of initial burning, supporting firefighters in their efforts to contain fires quickly before getting close to homes, businesses and APS equipment.
• Monitoring: Meteorologists use advanced weather stations, high-definition cameras and modeling software to track and predict wildfire behavior.
• Maintenance: Certified arborists and foresters clear dry brush and grass from about 80,000 power poles and maintain roughly 80,000 trees each year — pruning branches and removing dead or dying trees near power lines to help keep power safe and reliable.
• Response: Fire mitigation experts with hotshot crew experience collaborate with fire authorities and first responders on emergency plans to support safety. 

Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS): what to know and how to prepare

To help prevent wildfires and protect communities during extreme weather, APS may temporarily turn off power in certain limited, high fire-risk areas through a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). While this tool has not been used since its introduction in 2024, customers are encouraged to stay prepared, especially during hot and extremely dry conditions.

APS recently mailed and emailed PSPS information to customers served by power lines in potentially impacted areas. Please watch for these materials. If a PSPS is necessary, we plan to provide advance notice so affected customers have time to prepare. Targeted PSPS areas include communities in Coconino, Gila, Navajo, Pinal and Yavapai counties. Search addresses by visiting aps.com/psps and using the online map.

Get ready now:

• Create an online APS account at aps.com/login with a current cell phone number and email address to receive outage alerts or sign in to be sure your contact information is updated.
• If you rely on life-sustaining medical equipment requiring electricity, register for the APS Medical Care program at 602-371-7171 or 800-253-9405. This notifies APS of your needs in the event of an outage.
• Build an emergency supply kit that includes items such as non-perishable food, a can opener, water, flashlights, batteries, a radio, a first aid kit and a portable cell phone charger.
• Form a support circle and develop a plan that includes emergency contacts. If you need to leave your home, identify a safe, comfortable and cool place to go.
• Remove weeds and overgrown plants or shrubs, trash and debris around your home.
• Learn how to manually open your electric garage door or security gates.
• If you have livestock, know your local resources and make an emergency plan for their care.

Collaboration with emergency managers

APS is partnering closely with emergency managers to support preparedness efforts. Customers are encouraged to sign up for their local county emergency notification system to receive timely alerts and information — an important step underscored by public safety officials:

City of Flagstaff

“Preparedness really comes down to working together as a community. In Flagstaff, we coordinate closely with APS and our regional partners, so when wildfire risk increases, people have clear information about what to expect,” said Daniel Kelly, City of Flagstaff Emergency Manager. “Taking a little time now to prepare for potential outages and staying connected to local alerts can make a big difference if conditions lead to a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS).”

For City of Flagstaff disaster preparedness information, visit: connect.flagstaffaz.gov/be-ready.

Coconino County

“The mission of Coconino County Emergency Management is to protect lives, safeguard property and strengthen community resilience against disasters,” said Tim Carter, Coconino County Emergency Manager. “Through collaboration with partners such as APS, we support proactive measures — including comprehensive vegetation management and Public Safety Power Shutoff programs — that help reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires in our communities.”

To register for Coconino County emergency alerts, visit: coconino.az.gov/ready.  

Gila County 

“As we head into wildfire season and periods of extreme heat, I urge every resident to take simple steps now. Know your risks, have a plan and be ready to act when conditions change,” said Carl Melford, Gila County Emergency Manager. “Power outages and fast-moving incidents can happen with little warning, but a prepared community is a resilient community.”

For emergency preparedness tips and to sign up for Gila County’s emergency alerts, visit: readygila.com. 
 
Navajo County

“As the Navajo County Emergency Manager, I encourage our residents and visitors to be prepared for any emergency including wildfires. The first step is staying informed — sign up for the Ready Navajo County Alert System,” said Catrina Jenkins, Navajo County Emergency Manager. 

Register for Navajo County emergency alerts by visiting: navajocountyaz.gov/ready.

Pinal County

“Our role is to help keep the community safe when wildfire risk is high,” said Kore Redden, Pinal County Emergency Manager. “We work closely with APS to ensure resources are ready and encourage residents in the Top of the World community within targeted Public Safety Power Shutoff areas to have a plan and essential items prepared. Keeping our community safe is a shared responsibility.”

Sign up for Pinal County emergency alerts by visiting: pinal.gov/pens.

Yavapai County

"True emergency management transcends agency boundaries; it is built on the strength of our private sector partnerships,” said Ashley Ahlquist, Yavapai County Emergency Manager. “Preparedness is a 'whole community' mission, and working alongside APS ensures that our local expertise is backed by their unique resources and reach. When we bridge the gap between public safety and private enterprise, we don’t just plan for disasters — we build a more resilient Arizona.”

To register for Yavapai County emergency alerts, visit: yavapaiready.gov.

By staying connected with both APS and local emergency management, customers can be better prepared and informed during potential power shutoffs and other emergency situations. Learn more about APS’s wildfire mitigation efforts at aps.com/wildfires or more about PSPS at aps.com/psps.

Summer 2025 is coming in hot and Arizona Public Service (APS) is ready to keep the energy flowing and air conditioners humming. Another potential record-breaking year for energy demand may be in sight, in addition to extreme weather. APS is prepared with sufficient power supply, upgraded electrical equipment and emergency response plans to keep customers cool and connected.

“When the summer heat sets in, the APS energy grid doesn’t break a sweat and works 24/7 to power through those back-to-back days of triple-digit temperatures. But this doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a result of our dedicated employees, their proactive planning and our crews always ready to respond to keep our electrical system going,” said Jacob Tetlow, APS Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “APS provides reliable power customers can count on and our teams from all over the state including lineworkers, resource planners, grid operators, engineers, drone pilots and power plant operators work diligently so the grid runs smoothly.”

How does APS provide the energy customers need when they need it?

As a result of year-round maintenance and planning, APS customers faced fewer minutes of interrupted service last year than the nationwide industry average. While APS meteorologists are forecasting odds tilted in favor of above average rainfall and temperatures for this year’s monsoon season, APS is prepared to deliver continued top-tier reliability through several efforts:

Summer Heat and Peak Energy Demand

• Resource planners work years in advance to meet Arizona’s growing energy needs. This year, APS forecasts a potential peak customer energy demand of about 8,491 megawatts (MW). Last year, APS customers set a record of 8,210 MW in Aug. 2024. Peak demand is the period of time when customer energy use is at its highest.
• APS maintains a diverse and balanced energy mix to serve customers with reliable and affordable energy – ranging from 24/7 nuclear power, flexible natural gas, solar and wind power and battery energy storage.

Storm Preparedness and Response

• Lineworkers frequently upgrade the energy grid and have installed steel poles in targeted areas where possible to lessen the impact of strong winds.
• Grid operators monitor the electrical system around-the-clock. APS installed smart grid devices at strategic locations on power lines to help swiftly reroute power and shorten outages to reduce the impact on as many customers as possible.
• Ahead of a storm, APS meteorologists forecast potential weather conditions. APS teams utilize this information to strategically stage lineworkers, supplies and resources to help make repairs as quickly and safely as possible.

Comprehensive Wildfire Mitigation

• In time for elevated fire risk in 2025, APS fire mitigation experts are using artificial intelligence (AI) smoke detection cameras to search for early signs of wildfires and support firefighters. APS AI cameras have detected smoke starts within minutes of initially burning, aiding firefighters in their efforts to contain fires quickly.
• To monitor fire risk, APS meteorologists are also using innovative technology, including weather stations, high-definition cameras and advanced fire modeling software.
• Field crews regularly remove dry and hazardous trees and brush near equipment, poles and power lines. They wrap fire mesh around wooden poles in high-risk fire areas to help protect them from fires.
• Through its Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) program, APS may temporarily shut off the power during extreme weather conditions in limited high fire-risk communities to help prevent wildfires. Limited areas within Coconino, Gila, Navajo, Pinal and Yavapai counties are included in the program, and customers will receive advance notification prior to a PSPS. Customers can search their addresses to see if they’re in an area where a PSPS may be called through our interactive map here.

How can customers prepare for extreme summer weather?

• Ensure your contact information with APS is current. Sign in to your aps.com account or call the APS Customer Care Center at (602) 371-7171 to update your email, text and phone numbers so APS can reach you in the event of an emergency.
• Alert APS if you use life-supporting medical equipment that requires electricity, call (602) 371-7171 to register for our Medical Care Program.
• Pack an emergency supply kit. Include non-perishable foods, a can-opener, water, a first-aid kit, a battery-operated radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a portable phone charger and medication.
• Make a family emergency plan. Write down important phone numbers for medical providers, family, friends and APS. Identify a cool location you can visit during an outage to stay comfortable and safe, such as a family member’s home outside of your neighborhood.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage. Objects found in backyards, like umbrellas, kiddie pools, canopies, and trampolines can end up in power lines, causing outages.
• Stay at least 100 feet away from a downed power line, call 911, and then call APS.

At Arizona Public Service (APS), our dedicated team of fire mitigation professionals work all year long to identify technology and processes that address the challenges of Arizona’s extreme weather and wildfires. At the heart of our comprehensive wildfire mitigation program is a dedicated team of fire mitigation specialists with experience working as wildland firefighters; degreed foresters and certified arborists; and meteorologists and data scientists who help track extreme weather risks.

“We’ve developed industry-leading best practices over the past decade to help safeguard the communities we serve and our infrastructure from Arizona’s changing climate,” said Scott Bordenkircher, APS Forestry and Fire Mitigation Director. “As a hometown energy provider, we have a responsibility to do what we can to help prevent wildfires, and we are thoughtfully investing in resources to support greater protection for the communities we serve.”

We care deeply about providing our customers with reliable and affordable power. Many of our team members live and work in the very communities where they take great care to maintain and safely operate our energy grid. Our work involves thorough inspections, preventative upgrades, regular clearance of dry brush and vegetation, and strong partnerships with local firefighters in communities like Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff, Payson, Show Low, Globe and more.

Building on years of experience and partnerships with new technology

We’ve installed over 100 weather stations, which are used by a team of meteorologists to forecast and track local conditions in real time. An additional 82 high-definition cameras are used to monitor wildfires and their potential impact on power lines and equipment.

We’re also using new artificial intelligence (AI) fire-sensing cameras to watch for wildfires 24/7 in high-risk areas. These cameras alert APS experts and fire dispatch centers when they detect smoke or heat.

"The new AI cameras act as powerful extra sets of eyes. When minutes matter, early fire detection provides real-time information so firefighters can respond faster and we can make critical operational decisions about our energy grid to help keep communities safe,” explained Bordenkircher.

We plan to continue adding these technologies to help monitor wildfire conditions.

More ways we work year-round to prevent, reduce and respond to wildfires 

• Clearing potentially hazardous vegetation, like trees, weeds, brush and branches around tens of thousands of equipment poles and substations each year.  
• Conducting robust inspections and maintenance of 18,000 miles of power lines each year and using innovative technology like infrared scans and drones to help identify and troubleshoot potential problems.  
• Strengthening power poles in high-fire-risk areas with fire mesh to guard from damage, installing steel poles where possible, and upgrading system devices with new technologies that help reduce fire risk. 
• During high-fire-risk conditions, disabling settings that automatically re-energize power lines, performing in-person inspections before re-–energizing lines, and adding safety protocols such as rescheduling planned field work when a Red Flag Warning is in effect.
• Implementing a Public Safety Power Shutoff program to be used only in severe fire conditions.

Steps you can take to be prepared

• Clear overgrown grass, brush, trash and debris from around your property. 
• Update your contact information on aps.com to ensure you receive important alerts and sign up for your county’s emergency alert system.
• Make a plan and build an emergency supply kit that includes items such as non-perishable food, water, prescription medication, flashlights, batteries, portable phone charger and list of emergency contacts. 

Learn more about our wildfire mitigation efforts at aps.com/wildfires.

New artificial intelligence (AI) fire-sensing cameras operated by Arizona Public Service (APS) are proactively searching 24/7 for early signs of wildfires in targeted, high fire-risk areas. They alert APS fire mitigation experts and fire dispatch centers when smoke and heat traces are detected. As part of its comprehensive wildfire mitigation strategy, APS is enhancing collaboration with firefighters and providing fire dispatch centers access to live camera feeds and fire detection information.

"The new AI cameras act as powerful extra sets of eyes. When minutes matter, early fire detection provides real-time information so firefighters can respond faster and we can make critical operational decisions about our energy grid to help keep communities safe,” said Scott Bordenkircher, APS Forestry and Fire Mitigation Director. “Our wildfire mitigation efforts over the past 10 years, strengthened by partnerships with federal land managers, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management and local fire departments, is key to delivering safe, reliable energy to customers."

"The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management knows the capabilities of the AI cameras and the critical asset they can be for the state when it comes to DFFM’s wildfire response. We will have the ability to tap into the cameras and those feeds will help increase our situational awareness as well as provide our dispatching center with timely information to relay to our boots on the ground," said Tom Torres, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management Director. “We appreciate the collaboration with APS to enhance our fire suppression response efforts so DFFM can better serve and protect our residents and communities.”

The new technology from Pano AI is helping mitigate wildfire risk through a variety of features, including:

• More than 30 APS AI cameras mounted in elevated locations across Flagstaff, Payson, Prescott, Sedona, north Phoenix and southeastern Arizona by this summer.
• Smart AI that evaluates and detects fire smoke optimally within a 10-mile range and studies the way smoke looks to prevent mistaking other images like fog or dust as signs of wildfire.
• Connected satellite data that produces information on the size and location of the fire and 24/7 live stream using ultra-high-definition cameras with 360-degree views that can zoom in on a specific location.

"Arizona faces a growing threat from wildfires and early detection is critical to protecting communities and infrastructure," said Arvind Satyam, Pano AI Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer. “By partnering with APS, we’re bringing cutting-edge technology and real-time intelligence to the frontlines of wildfire response. These AI-powered cameras spot smoke from miles away and provide actionable insights that help the utility and emergency responders move quickly and decisively."

Recent examples of AZ wildfire detection through the lens of AI
December 2024:

• The Horton Fire, caused by human activity, ignited in the Tonto National Forest during a time of year when wildfire risk is typically low.
• An AI camera in Payson notified APS fire mitigation specialists of the smoke. .
• APS fire mitigation specialists worked with first responders and because of weather conditions and APS’s previous removal of overgrown and unwanted brush, firefighters were able to use power line corridors as fire breaks to help keep flames from spreading.
• Firefighters used the cameras to help monitor the fire’s growth overnight.

February 2025:

• An AI camera in the Prescott National Forest detected smoke from the Brady Fire when it was less than one acre in size.
• Installed on a communication tower, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, the camera system immediately notified APS and the forest’s dispatch center.
• Firefighters’ swift and tactical response helped contain the fire’s spread and, due to the fire’s distance from power lines and the camera’s early detection of smoke, the fire did not impact APS equipment or service to customers.

What else does APS do to help reduce wildfire risk?

• APS takes an in depth, multi-layered approach that spans across many teams from fire mitigation specialists with experience working as wildland firefighters to tree experts, meteorologists, lineworkers, engineers, data analysts and drone pilots to keep power flowing safely and reliably through more than 38,000 miles of power lines.
• The APS Wildfire Mitigation program includes regular power line inspections, preventative upgrades, clearing hazardous brush and vegetation from power lines and wildfire monitoring technology, like weather stations, fire modeling software and high-definition cameras, utilized to help prevent, reduce and respond to wildfire risk.

For more information on APS’s wildfire mitigation efforts, visit aps.com/wildfiresafety. To learn more about the wildfire camera technology, visit pano.ai

Across a sprawling network of more than 38,000 miles of power lines, APS crews are on the front lines year-round conducting patrols – on foot, by vehicle and in the air – to protect and maintain a strong and resilient energy system. With Arizona’s hot summers, low rainfall and dry vegetation, APS is taking more action to support wildfire-prone communities by installing innovative fire and weather tracking technology on its grid and enhancing its robust wildfire mitigation program.

“We’ve developed industry-leading best practices over the past decade to help safeguard the communities we serve and our infrastructure from Arizona’s changing climate,” said Scott Bordenkircher, APS Forestry and Fire Mitigation Director. “As a hometown energy provider, we have a responsibility to do what we can to prevent wildfires and we are thoughtfully investing in resources to include greater protection for the public, firefighters, our employees and the electric grid.”

How does APS help reduce wildfire risk?

APS takes steps year-round to help prevent, reduce and respond to wildfires including:

Innovative Technology

• Installing new weather stations on power lines to track weather patterns that could cause a fire;
• Using new advanced cameras on electrical equipment to monitor potential signs of a fire from a command center;
• Modeling data and utilizing advanced software to inform predictions about fire probability and which direction a particular wildfire is likely to travel; and
• Incorporating drone technology to assess areas where vegetation may grow into power lines.

Preventative Maintenance

• Strengthening power poles in higher-risk fire areas with fire mesh to shield equipment from fire damage;
• Clearing at least 10 feet of space of potentially hazardous vegetation, like weeds, brush, branches and trees from power poles, substations and other electrical equipment; and
• Inspecting on average 40,000 power poles per year to ensure they are clear of hazards.

Collaboration and Expertise

• Creating a meteorological team to track hazardous weather conditions and wildfires and provide guidance about emergency response;
• Collaborating with fire authorities and emergency response agencies on emergency preparedness and response plans to keep Arizonans, their pets, livestock and property safe;
• Ongoing training and education for specialized APS fire mitigation experts who have experience working on hot shot crews and respond to wildfires in partnership with firefighters; and
• Under extreme weather conditions and in a limited approach, utilizing Public Safety Power Shutoffs to maintain the safety of people, communities and firefighters.

How can Arizonans prepare?

While APS crews prepare year-round, customers can take the following steps to be ready:

• Remove overgrown vegetation, trash or debris around your property.
• Build an emergency supplies kit that includes items such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries and a portable cell phone charger. Have a plan and emergency contact list ready.
• Download the APS app or visit aps.com/outagecenter and create an online account to receive text or email alerts and safety tips in case of a power outage.
• Update your contact information with APS to ensure you receive important information.
• Sign up for your county’s emergency alert system.

For more information on APS’s wildfire prevention programs, visit aps.com/wildfires.

The theme for this year’s Southwest Wildfire Awareness Week (March 26 – April 1) is ‘Preparing Together’ and APS is teaming up with public safety agencies to get the word out about how you can prepare for and prevent wildfires. While APS works to reduce wildfires year-round and partners with firefighters, this week is an opportunity to encourage people to take simple steps to protect their communities. Attention is often on forested areas in northern Arizona, but other parts of the state where wildland landscapes meet urban areas are also vulnerable to fire risk.

“Each year, we see fire risk grow from the mountains deeper into urban areas. Wildfire seasons are becoming more and more unpredictable and it’s important we all do our part to keep communities safe,” said Wade Ward, APS Fire Mitigation Supervisor. “At APS, we work hand-in-hand with firefighters, develop plans to reduce fire risk, make upgrades to keep our grid resilient and partner with homeowners and businesses to be prepared.”

In addition to partnering with state and federal agencies, APS’s fire preparedness strategy includes: Inspecting more than 18,000 miles of power lines and clearing overgrown vegetation.

• Inspecting more than 18,000 miles of power lines and clearing overgrown vegetation. Clearing at least 10’ of defensible space around infrastructure, poles and substations in the wildland urban interface.
• Collaborating with emergency response agencies on emergency preparedness plans. 
• Installing advanced power grid technology to manage wildfire risks.              
• Updating outage restoration protocols to reduce fire risk during elevated fire conditions.

Arizonans can take simple steps at home to protect their communities and be prepared:

• Remove overgrown vegetation, trash, or debris around your home. Clear vegetation around poles or other electrical equipment on your property. 
• Build a go-kit with supplies, such as non-perishable food items, water, flashlights, batteries and a portable cell phone charger. Have a plan and emergency contacts ready.            
• Download the APS app or visit aps.com/OutageCenter and create an online account to receive text or email alerts and safety tips in case of a power outage. 
• Update your contact information with APS to ensure you receive important information.

While APS crews work to restore power as quickly as possible, the safety of the public, first responders and our crews takes precedence. During an active fire, power lines may be temporarily taken out of service to protect firefighters and so APS crews can safely inspect lines and remove vegetation or potential hazards near electrical equipment. This could result in outages that may last longer than usual. To learn more, visit aps.com/WildfireSafety.

As wildfires affect communities in our state, Arizona Public Service Co. (APS) is working closely with emergency management agencies and when needed, is prepared to take power lines out of service to protect the public and first responders.

While providing reliable electric service and promptly restoring power after an outage are top priorities, the safety of our communities and first responders takes precedence. During elevated fire conditions, we may have to prolong power outages until crews can perform visual inspections of lines and remove any vegetation or potential hazards near electric equipment. In the event of an active fire, power lines may be temporarily taken out of service to protect firefighters, which could result in outages that might last longer than usual.

Before emergencies occur, customers are encouraged to prepare for a potential loss of electricity.

Get ready now:

• Download the APS app or visit the aps.com/outagecenter for information on how to be prepared for an outage, report an outage and view the APS outage map.
• Subscribe to APS outage alerts to receive text/email updates about power outages.
• Update your contact information with APS to ensure you receive important information.
• Create a power outage safety kit that includes items like a flashlight, extra batteries, portable cell phone charger, battery-powered radio, first-aid kit and water.
• If you have an automatic garage door, check the instructions to learn how to open the door manually.
• If you use life-sustaining medical equipment that requires electricity, register for the APS Medical Care Program at 602-371-7171 (800-253-9405). This alerts APS of your needs in the event of an outage.

Ways to stay safe during a power outage:

• Keep your phone fully charged. Keep a portable charger and car charger handy.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. Food will stay cold for up to 4 hours in the fridge and longer in the freezer.
• Turn off and unplug electrical equipment and appliances to avoid electrical spikes when power is restored. After power is restored, wait 5-10 minutes to plug in and turn on major appliances and electrical equipment.
• Do not try to repair electrical problems on your own, please call APS or a certified electrician.

We take a year-round approach to prepare for wildfires, including:

• Reducing fire risk by clearing space, including vegetation or other flammable materials, around our equipment. Trees too close to power lines could pose a fire risk.
• Maintaining our electrical infrastructure by protecting and strengthening equipment.
• Working with first responder agencies throughout Arizona to create response plans and coordinate in the event of fires.

Visit aps.com/wildfiresafety for more information about how to prepare for and stay safe during elevated fire conditions.

“In Arizona, we’re in an extended drought that has impacted our communities and the energy system,” said Wade Ward, a Fire Mitigation Specialist for APS. “We’ve had micro-rebounds, if you will, where things are better in one year from the last, but overall it’s just getting hotter and drier.”

Through October, 299 fires ignited within ¼ mile of our energy system assets this year. Just within the urban interface zones, which are areas of transition between wildland and human development, these assets include more than 6,000 miles of transmission power lines, nearly 30,000 miles of distribution lines, and 75,000 power poles delivering power to our customers.

While the impact to our communities was significant due to large fires this season, the impact to reliability for our customers was minimal. That’s because we don’t wait for fires to begin before preparing to respond. Our crews work year-round to mitigate the risks.
 

Our fire plan focuses on three key elements: prevention, mitigation and recovery.

• Prevention refers to standards and systems that help reduce the risk of loss of power to our customers for any reason. It often includes hardening key assets, like substation walls or distribution poles, to prevent fire ignitions and managing vegetation growth near equipment to limit fire risk.

We have implemented Defensible Space Around Poles as a best management practice, meaning that if we have a pole with a piece of equipment on it that has the potential to spark, we clear a minimum of 10 feet around that pole.

“We clear as best we can down to mineral soil around the base of a pole so if a wildland fire comes up to it, it has no more fuel to burn,” Ward said.

• Mitigation limits impact of events by ensuring contingency solutions are in place when fire-related service interruptions occur on our system. It focuses on adaptable technologies to address problems. Installation of microgrids, energy storage, on-site generators and use of portable substations are all examples of technology we can implement to help sustain basic service or operations in critical situations.
  
   
• Recovery includes response and rebuilding efforts following a fire. It establishes processes to assess damage and deploy crews and repair equipment. Utilizing a state-of-the-art Advanced Distribution Management System expedites the speed of restoration by providing our operators with real-time system information and the ability to operate remote devices.

“Delivering safe and reliable electricity is not just a tag phrase, it really is our objective,” Ward said.

The APS fire mitigation team coordinates closely with local fire authorities and the U.S. Forest Service on fire mitigation efforts and also during active fire incidents.

Jason Clawson, Deputy Fire Staff Officer of Kaibab National Forest, characterizes Kaibab’s relationship with APS as long-standing and respectful.

“APS is one of our best partners when it comes to fire prevention and mitigation efforts,” Clawson said. “We share a common vision around serving the public.”

So, what can APS customers do to aid fire prevention and mitigation efforts?

Consider “The Right Tree in the Right Place” policy when planting in your yard. Shrubs and trees planted near overhead lines should not grow taller than 15 feet.

“There is a right place for trees and it’s not underneath a power line and it’s not around a utility pole,” Ward said. “We encourage customers to plant something, but to plant it outside of the rights-of-way and away from their homes."

He added, “For a customer, creating defensible space includes removing all vegetation from around their homes. If they can do that within 30 feet of their house, the odds of keeping their home safe from a fire increases greatly. It gives the firefighters a fighting chance to come in and save their home in the event of an oncoming wildfire.”