Press Release

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Con Edison Prepares for Weekend Wind and Rain Storm
NEW YORK, NY, Apr 13, 2007 (MARKET WIRE via COMTEX News Network) -- Con Edison (NYSE: ED) is closely monitoring the approaching wind and rain storm that is expected to hit our region this weekend. The company is preparing crews and extra personnel to respond quickly and efficiently in the event of any power outages.

The expected high winds and heavy rain could take their toll on trees, causing them to topple into power lines and result in outages. In addition, extensive flooding from rising levels of seawater can damage underground electrical equipment in low-lying areas, which could cause customers to lose power.

Con Edison will have additional customer service representatives, electrical and construction crews, along with tree-clearing crews working around the clock to respond to customers and power outages that may occur.

In the event of severe outages, primary distribution feeders will be restored first, with the highest priority given to lines that supply the most customers out of service. Next, the crews will restore secondary facilities, such as transformers and secondary cables, again with highest priority given to lines supplying the most customers out of service. Individual services, lines serving a single home, will be restored as crews become available.

The company urges customers to report power interruptions or service problems on-line at www.conEd.com, or by calling Con Edison's toll-free customer service number, 1-800-75-CON ED (1-800-752-6633). When reporting an outage, customers should have their Con Edison account number available, if possible, and report whether their neighbors have also lost power.

The company will maintain close contact with the New York City Office of Emergency Management and the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services to coordinate storm response as necessary.

Con Edison offers the following tips to prepare for 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 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, stay inside the vehicle and wait for emergency personnel.
  • If your power goes out, turn off all lights and appliances to prevent overloaded circuits when power is restored. 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. Use candles and oil lamps 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 opening 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 approximately 36 to 48 hours; half-full freezers will keep food frozen for approximately 24 hours.

CONTACT:
Michael Clendenin
(212) 460-4111
Media Relations

Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.
4 Irving Place
New York, NY 10003
www.conEd.com

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