Xcel Energy customers in parts of Colorado face power outages

Wildfire forces Xcel Energy to cut power to nearly 30,000 customers in Colorado

A wildfire in Boulder County, Colorado, has forced Xcel Energy to cut power to nearly 30,000 customers in the area. The outages began on Saturday, December 31, 2022, and are expected to last for several days.

The wildfire, known as the Marshall Fire, has burned over 6,000 acres and has destroyed over 1,000 homes.

Xcel Energy said that the power outages are necessary to protect the safety of its crews and customers. The company is working to restore power as quickly as possible, but it could take several days for all customers to have their power restored.

What should you do if your power is out?

If your power is out, there are a few things you should do:

• Check to see if your neighbors' power is out. If it is, the outage is likely due to the wildfire.
• Turn off all appliances and electronics. This will help to prevent damage when the power comes back on.
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed. Food will stay cold for several hours in a closed refrigerator or freezer.
• If you have a generator, follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe operation.
• Stay informed about the wildfire and power outages. Listen to local news and weather reports for updates.

How to stay safe during a power outage

Power outages can be dangerous, so it's important to take precautions to stay safe:

• Never touch downed power lines.
• Be aware of the location of your gas and electric meters. If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and call 911.
• If you have a generator, make sure it is properly ventilated. Never operate a generator indoors.
• Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and those with disabilities. Make sure they are safe and have everything they need.

For more information on power outages, please visit the Xcel Energy website.