During weather that could damage power circuits and lines, SDG&E will monitor their circuits and shut off power to avoid lines and equipment starting fires. Unfortunately when they do this, us and the Fire Department do not receive information on when power could be restored.
Here are two links that you can access on your phone that may be of help:
https://www.sdge.com/wildfire-safety/public-safety-power-shutoffs
https://www.sdge.com/residential/customer-service/outage-center/outage-map
The Outage Map is probably the most helpful. On the shutoff page, they have information on the process and FAQ's that may help answer your questions.
Once power is cut off- due to a planned or unplanned outage, they cannot turn the power back on until they inspect the line(s) that are in the circuit. They don't want to energize a downed line they did not know about. So that process takes time.... they patrol via foot, vehicle and helicopter depending on the type and length of circuit involved. You can imagine the work if the line is a few miles long......
We can't give accurate updates on this process, because we are not involved and the process is dynamic. Usually we will have residents call SDG&E directly or check the above web pages. SDG&E number: 1-800-411-7343
Our advice is to have a plan if the power goes off. Be prepared to use a generator, alternate cold storage, flashlights, etc. If you use a generator, connect it to the device you wish to power. Check with SDG&E about this prior to having to use it.
Your gate has to have battery backup- Fire Code requires this. The battery will open the gate in a loss of power. All gates have an alternate mechanical way to open the gate as well- look at your instruction manual or ask your gate installer. Usually it is a lever or bolt that can be moved to open the gate.
