Rialto seniors, veterans and residents with disabilities can apply for direct assistance when power is shut off during wildfire season or extreme weather.
The city's Public Safety Power Shutoff Support Program provides help to eligible residents during declared PSPS events, according to a City of Rialto announcement posted Monday, Oct. 26. The announcement included a link for more information but did not detail the specific types of assistance available or how to apply.
Eligibility is limited to Rialto residents who are seniors, veterans or individuals with disabilities. The city said residents can apply during a PSPS event or extreme weather emergency.
A PSPS is a precautionary measure utilities use during periods of elevated wildfire risk. Edison shuts off power to reduce the chance that electrical equipment could spark a fire. The shutoffs can leave households without electricity for hours or days, hitting hardest for people who depend on powered medical equipment or climate control.
Rialto has been affected by PSPS events before. In November 2024, the Rialto Fire account on X warned that a high wind warning could trigger a shutoff affecting the city.
County libraries may also open as resource centers
The city program comes alongside a broader county effort. The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors approved a partnership between the county library system and Southern California Edison on Oct. 7 to designate select library branches as community resource centers during PSPS events.
County Librarian Melanie Orosco said the partnership connects two organizations focused on helping residents navigate power disruptions. When electricity is unavailable at home, she said, participating libraries can serve as a point of connection for the communities they serve.
The county has not announced which branches will participate. Activation will depend on the circumstances of each event and coordination with Edison, according to the county. Specific locations, hours and available resources will be communicated to residents when a center opens.
The Board of Supervisors' approved items noted that county libraries, including the Bloomington Library, will be able to serve as resource centers. Whether the Rialto Branch Library is among the designated locations has not been confirmed.
Board of Supervisors Chairman Dawn Rowe, who represents the Third District, said the partnership is part of the county's effort to strengthen emergency preparedness.
What residents should know
The Rialto PSPS Support Program is available only during declared PSPS events or extreme weather emergencies. No active PSPS event has been declared in Rialto as of Oct. 27.
Residents can contact the San Bernardino County Library system at 909-387-2220 for information about the library resource center program.
