People who depend on powered medical devices are asked to prepare for power outages

West Hawaii residents who rely on electrical medical devices are strongly advised to prepare for possible power outages this summer.

Hawaiian Electric on Monday began its Public Safety Power Shutoff program, a wildfire prevention measure that will cut off power in areas with a high risk of fire so that downed power lines do not cause fires.

Approximately 19,300 Hawaiian Electric customers live in PSPS program areas on the Big Island, which include regions between Kohala and Waikoloa, Kalaoa and Holualoa, and Maunakea Access Road and Waikii Ranch.

According to state Department of Health statistics, there could be as many as 317 people in areas covered by the PSPS program who are dependent on electricity-powered medical equipment, based on Medicare claims.

While closures will only be implemented when weather forecast data indicates a high risk of wildfire — taking into account factors such as low humidity, dry vegetation and high winds — these closures can occur with little or no warning and will last as long as hazardous conditions persist, which could range from several hours to several days.

Hawaiian Electric said it would, at best, send out 24 to 48 hours of advance notice of a power outage. Hawaiian Electric can only turn off power to select areas under the PSPS program, but if necessary, it can turn off all power to an area covered by the program.

The Ministry of Health on Wednesday asked residents who rely on electricity to power medical equipment to discuss power outage plans with their doctors.

Hawaiian Electric recommends that customers identify backup locations to go to in the event of a power outage or consider a safe alternative power source. If customers have a backup power source, they should regularly check that it is working properly and make sure they, their family members or caregivers know how to operate the power source.

Customers can also sign up for the Hawaiian Electric Special Medical Needs Program to receive additional, advance notice of power outages when available.

Additional power outage planning resources are available on the DOH website at preparenowhawaii.org.