Con Edison is closely monitoring the progress of Hurricane Floyd and is planning well in advance to respond quickly and efficiently in the event of any power outages. Preparations are underway as emergency staffing and equipment needs are being evaluated.
Among the actions taken by the company are a review of available emergency personnel, such as overhead line crews and support staff, readying additional engineers to assess damage, and preparing environmental response teams to react if needed.
Con Edison has alerted area tree trimming contractors to be available for emergency response with crews and equipment should it be necessary to clear fallen trees to enable company personnel to safely reach and repair damaged power lines. The company has also arranged for supplies of dry ice to be ready for customers in the event of any prolonged power outages.
In addition, the company has been in close contact with the New York City Office of Emergency Management and the Westchester County Office of Disaster and Emergency Service to coordinate preparation efforts.
Con Edison offers the following storm tips to customers to help weather the possible effects of a storm:
- If you see downed electrical wires, do not go near them. Treat all downed wires as if they are live. Never attempt to move them or touch them with any object. Be mindful that downed wires can be hidden from view by tree limbs, leaves or water. Report all downed wires to Con Edison and your local police department immediately. If a power line falls on your car while you’re in it, it is recommended that you stay inside the vehicle and wait for expert help.
- If your power goes out, turn off all lights and appliances to prevent overloaded circuits when power is restored. To report a power interruption at your home, call Con Edison’s toll-free customer service number 1-800-75-CON ED (1-800-752-6633). When reporting an outage, have your Con Edison account number handy, if possible, and report whether your neighbors have also lost power. Meanwhile, leave at least one light switch in the on position to alert you when power has been restored.
- Check to make sure your flashlights and any battery-operated radios or televisions are in working order, and use candles with care. Also, make sure you have a supply of extra batteries. Weather updates and news on restorations of electrical service can be heard on most local radio and television stations.
- Avoid the temptation to open your freezer to see if food is still frozen. Every time you open the door, room-temperature air enters and speeds the thawing process. Most fully loaded freezers will keep food frozen for 36 to 48 hours; half-full freezers will keep food frozen for about 24 hours.
