San Bernardino County announced a partnership with Southern California Edison to make select County Library branches available as community resource centers during designated Public Safety Power Shutoff events, the county said.

The county said activated library locations can provide a familiar place for residents to stay connected and access designated information and resources when electricity is unavailable at home. A PSPS is a precautionary measure used during periods of elevated wildfire risk to reduce the chance that electrical equipment could start a fire, the county said.

Activation of participating branches will not happen automatically for every PSPS; the county said activation will depend on the circumstances of each qualifying event and on coordination with SCE. The county said it will communicate specific locations, operating hours and available resources when a community resource center is activated.

Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor said, "Ensuring our residents have access to reliable information and community resources during emergencies is an important part of strengthening public safety across San Bernardino County." County Librarian Melanie Orosco said, "During an emergency, having a safe and trusted place in the community can make a tremendous difference." Crisanta Gonzalez, director of emergency management, said, "Effective emergency response depends on strong partnerships, coordinated communication and ensuring residents know where to turn for reliable information and support."

The county positioned the library network as a complement to its Office of Emergency Services-led response; with branches countywide, the library system can connect residents with local information and support, the county said.

The County Library encouraged residents to prepare ahead by developing a household emergency plan, maintaining emergency supplies, staying informed through official channels and identifying nearby community resources that may be available if power is interrupted. For more information the county provided the library website, library.sbcounty.gov, and the phone number 909-387-2220.

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Dawn Rowe

Supervisor, Third District, San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors

Named once in this story.

Everything the Journal has reported on DawnOfficial site

Portrait: San Bernardino County (public domain)

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County of San Bernardino

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