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High Wind Event

Critical Fire Danger

Emergency information for Jefferson County during high wind events with critical fire danger. Real-time updates, power outage status, and preparation guidance.

This critical fire danger event took place on March 14, 2026 and is no longer active. This page is preserved as a historical reference.

Jefferson County Office of Emergency Management

Social Media Updates

Xcel Energy Outage Map

Real-time map showing current and planned power outages in your area.

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Fire & Weather Conditions

Current fire weather data from the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC).

7-Day Fire Potential

Monthly Fire Outlook

How to Prepare

Take these steps now to prepare for a potential power shutoff.

Prepare Your Home

  • Set your fridge and freezer to the coldest setting. Food stays cold up to 4 hours in a closed fridge and up to 48 hours in a full freezer.
  • Turn off and unplug appliances that could surge when power returns.
  • Purchase portable charger banks and stock up on batteries.
  • Designate an outdoor space for generators, grills, and stoves. Do not operate these indoors or in partially enclosed spaces.
  • Practice opening your garage door without the electronic motor.

Prepare Yourself and Your Community

  • Write down emergency numbers and critical contact information.
  • Acquire a first aid kit of sufficient size and keep it stocked.
  • Keep an emergency supply of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Plan for refrigerated medications like insulin.
  • Fully charge medical devices and ensure backup power for electric medical equipment.
  • Check on neighbors, especially elderly residents and those with disabilities.
  • Keep pets' needs in mind when obtaining supplies.
  • Sign up for Lookout Alerts to receive emergency notifications by phone, text, or email. Register now so you're ready before an emergency occurs.

Prevent Wildfires

During high winds and critical fire danger, any spark can start a wildfire. Help protect your community:

  • Obey all fire restrictions and burn bans — no outdoor burning of any kind.
  • Never discard cigarettes, matches, or smoking materials outdoors or from vehicles.
  • Avoid using equipment that creates sparks such as mowers, chainsaws, and welding tools.
  • Do not use fireworks, fire pits, or campfires.
  • Report smoke or fire immediately — call 911.

While Power is Out

Keep these guidelines in mind while power is out.

Food Safety

  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
  • A full freezer holds temperature for ~48 hours; half-full for ~24 hours
  • Refrigerated food is safe for up to 4 hours with the door closed
  • When in doubt, throw it out — do not taste food to determine safety

Traffic & Travel

  • Traffic signals may be out — treat dark intersections as four-way stops
  • Keep vehicle gas tanks at least half full
  • Avoid unnecessary travel during the shutoff
  • Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists who may be less visible

Stay Informed

Find Information and Help

Emergency

911

JCSO Non-Emergency

(303) 980-7300

Xcel Energy Outages

1-800-895-1999

Fire Hotline

(303) 271-8200

Community Resources

211

Jefferson County Sheriff's Office · 200 Jefferson County Pkwy, Golden, CO 80401

Resources & Links

Xcel Energy Outage Map

Real-time map showing current and planned power outages in your area.

Xcel Energy PSPS Information

Official Xcel Energy information about Public Safety Power Shutoffs.

Jefferson County Emergency Management

County emergency management resources, plans, and contact information.

Lookout Alert Registration

Sign up for Jefferson County's emergency notification system for phone, text, and email alerts.

Wildland Fire Information

Active fires, fire restriction status, and wildland fire mitigation programs for Jefferson County.

Fire Restrictions & Burn Bans

Current fire restriction status, prohibited activities, and exemptions for unincorporated Jefferson County.

CORE Electric Cooperative Outage Center

Report outages, check restoration status, and find customer resources for CORE Electric Cooperative service areas.

Información en Español

Power outage preparedness infographics from Jefferson County Office of Emergency Management, available in Spanish. Click any image to enlarge.

Infografías de preparación para cortes de energía del Manejo de Emergencias del Condado de Jefferson. Haga clic en cualquier imagen para ampliar.

How to prepare before a power outage
Generator safety
Backup power preparation
Food safety during power outages
Contact information

Source: Jefferson County Office of Emergency Management (OEM)

What Is a Public Safety Power Shutoff?

A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is a proactive measure where Xcel Energy temporarily turns off electricity to reduce the risk of wildfire ignition during dangerous weather conditions.

Why it happens: High winds can damage power lines or knock them down, creating sparks that can ignite dry vegetation. When the National Weather Service issues Red Flag Warnings or extreme fire weather conditions are forecasted, Xcel Energy may de-energize power lines in high-risk areas as a preventive measure.

How it works: Xcel Energy notifies affected customers in advance when possible. Power is shut off before dangerous conditions arrive and restored once conditions improve and lines are inspected for safety. Outages can last from several hours to multiple days depending on weather conditions.

Who is affected: PSPS events primarily impact areas near wildland-urban interface zones in Jefferson County where power lines pass through or near fire-prone vegetation. Check the Xcel Energy outage map above to see if your area is affected.

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