NEW YORK – Con Edison continues to closely monitor Hurricane Earl as it moves up the East Coast. Currently, the company is focusing on pre-storm activities designed to prepare for this storm event.
As the hurricane moves closer to the New York area, the company advises its customers to pay close attention to city and municipal officials. Storm preparation tips are available on the company’s Website, www.conEd.com.
Customers should report power interruptions or service problems, as well as view service restoration information online at www.conEd.com, and on their cell phones and PDAs.
They also may call 1-800-75-CONED promptly if they are experiencing any service difficulties.
September is the center of the hurricane season. Hurricane Earl is the first major storm to approach our area, but Con Edison also is monitoring other storms that are developing over the Atlantic Ocean.
In the event that the hurricane impacts our area, Con Edison offers the following safety tips:
· 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 are 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 once power is 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, be sure to have an extra supply of batteries. Weather updates and news on restorations of electrical service can be heard on most local radio and television stations.
Con Edison is in constant communication with the National Weather Service, New York City Office of Emergency Management, and the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services, and company personnel are working closely with city and municipal officials.
