National Grid urges safety as forecasts call for another round of stormy weather

As the hot and humid weather lingers over upstate New York this week, weather forecasters are calling for strong winds and thunderstorms in portions of the region today and tomorrow. National Grid is monitoring the weather and crews remain at the ready if the storms impact service to customers.

The company offers the following tips to help customers be prepared and stay safe:

Electricity & Generator Safety

•If a power outage occurs, customers can notify National Grid online to expedite restoration.

•Never touch downed power lines; always assume they are carrying live electricity. Downed lines should be immediately reported to National Grid at 1-800-867-5222 or to a local emergency response organization.

•Generators used to supply power during an outage must be operated outdoors to prevent the buildup of deadly carbon monoxide. Before operating a generator, be sure to disconnect from National Grid’s system by shutting off the main breaker, located in a home’s electric service panel. Failure to do this could endanger both crews and neighbors.

•Customers who depend on electrically powered life support equipment, such as a respirator, should register as a life support customer by calling National Grid at 1-800-642- 4272. (In a medical emergency, always dial 911.)

•Keep a number of working flashlights and an extra supply of batteries in the home and be sure to charge all electronic devices.

•Drive carefully and use caution when driving near any crews working to restore power.

•Be sure to check on elderly family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance during an outage.

National Grid also advises staying tuned to local media for important announcements from emergency officials about possible evacuations or other emergency procedures. In most areas, information on storm shelter locations is available by calling 211.

Stay Connected

National Grid offers several ways to stay informed and safe – before, during and after a storm:

•Customers can receive personalized alerts by text, email or phone call when an outage is detected at their address, along with restoration estimates and associated updates. To enroll, text REG to 64743.

•For real-time power outage information, online outage reporting, and in-depth storm safety information, visit the “Outage Central” section of www.nationalgridus.com. Customers who create an online profile on the website can also sign up for email alerts.

Online and text alert services can be started and stopped at the customer’s request. Other ways to stay in touch include:

•Visit the website: www.nationalgridus.com.

•Follow on Twitter at https://twitter.com/nationalgridus.

•Friend on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/nationalgrid.