Dear DPS Community,
Xcel Energy has sent messages to customers across the front range in preparation for possible power outages due to forecasted high winds and warm temperatures beginning at noon tomorrow, Wednesday, Dec. 17.
As a public safety measure, Xcel Energy may need to proactively and temporarily turn off electric service to targeted areas as part of a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). If Xcel determines that a PSPS is necessary to mitigate wildfire risks, they will notify customers in impacted areas by phone and/or email as far ahead in advance as possible.
Another safety measure Xcel has in place is Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS). When EPSS are activated, power lines are more sensitive and can stop the flow of electricity instantly if an object touches the power line, resulting in a power outage. Visit Xcel Energy’s website to learn more about PSPS and EPSS.
At this time, the Xcel Public Safety Power Shutoff Watch suggests that there would be minimal impact to most DPS buildings. The schools that could be potentially affected by power outages have been communicated with and can expect additional communications and updates as we receive more information from Xcel tomorrow morning and leading into the early afternoon.
We are working with Xcel to closely monitor the situation and no decisions have been made for closures or delays at this time. Our goal is to keep schools open as long as it is safe to continue normal operations. If it is determined that a school is impacted as a result of a power outage, we will alert families and staff as soon as possible.
We recognize the significant impacts that a closure of any kind may have on this final week of the semester and commit to ensuring that we prioritize the safety of our students and staff.