DPU reminds residents who rely on electrically powered, life-sustaining medical equipment to register for the Medical Equipment Alert Program. Courtesy/LAC

COUNTY News:

As part of Public Power Week, the Los Alamos County Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is reminding residents who rely on electrically powered, life-sustaining medical equipment to register for the department’s Medical Equipment Alert Program.

This voluntary registry allows DPU to identify customers with special notification needs in the event of planned power outages. Registered participants receive special notice—beyond normal notification procedures—when planned electrical interruptions are scheduled.

“While our team works year-round to provide safe, reliable electric service, occasional planned outages are necessary for system maintenance, replacements and upgrades,” DPU Utilities Manager Philo Shelton said. “Our Medical Equipment Alert Program helps us support customers whose health depends on electrical power by making sure they receive as much advance notice as possible.”

Participants and caregivers are reminded that DPU cannot guarantee uninterrupted power service and unplanned outages are always a possibility. Individuals using medical equipment should maintain a backup power system and an emergency plan in case of an outage.

Community members already enrolled in the registry are asked to re-enroll annually to keep the list up to date.

Note: Customers who do not re-enroll after a year will be removed from the registry.

If you or a member of your household relies on electrical medical equipment, please register, and mark your calendar to re-register annually at https://ladpu.com/medequip.

Public Power Week is celebrated nationwide each October to recognize the community-owned utilities that power homes, businesses, and public services. DPU joins thousands of other public power providers in honoring the strong partnerships that keep local communities safe, resilient, and connected.