NEW YORK – Con Edison is closely monitoring a storm that is expected to hit our region later today. The forecast calls for wind, rain and snow through tomorrow. The mix could cause branches and trees to fall into power lines and knock out electrical service to customers.
The company is mobilizing hundreds of utility crews to respond to any outages caused by the wintry mix. Heavy wet snow and strong winds can impact trees and overhead power lines; the company reminds customers to keep safety a top priority.
Crews will make restorations as weather conditions permit and as roads become cleared of obstructions, notably fallen trees and large branches.
The company reminds customers to take safety precautions and avoid any downed power lines. (Check out this helpful video: http://bcove.me/6sx1yox5)
Customers can report downed power lines, outages, and check service restoration status by computer or mobile device at www.coned.com/ReportOutage. They can also call 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633). When reporting an outage, customers should have their Con Edison account number available, if possible, and report whether their neighbors also have lost power. Customers who report outages will be called by Con Edison with their estimated restoration times as they become available.
Depending on the severity of storm damage, crews will give priority to restoring service lines that will provide power to the most customers as quickly as possible, then move on to restore smaller groups and individual customers who are without power.
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 them or touch them with your hands or 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, disconnect or turn off appliances that would otherwise turn on automatically when service is restored. If several appliances start up at once, the electric circuits may overload.
· Check to make sure your flashlights and any battery-operated radios are in working order. Make sure you have extra batteries.
· Weather updates and news on restorations of electrical service can be heard on most local radio and television stations.
For more tips on storm preparation, go to www.conEd.com.
The company is in close contact with the New York City Office of Emergency Management and the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services to coordinate storm response if needed.