With the storm approaching us this weekend here is a message from National Grid:
We are continuing to monitor the weather forecasts and are putting plans in place to address any potential outages the weather may bring. The forecast continues to evolve, but obviously the greatest concern right now is with the chance of heavy wet snow that can bring down branches and cause damage to the electrical system; as well as the chance for icy conditions late on Sunday.
We will be opening up storm rooms and staging sites in Massachusetts and will have additional National Grid staff on hand prepared to handle wires down calls, damage assessment, substation, transmission and underground needs.
In the meantime, we would like to encourage our customers to adhere to the following safety messages:
Safety Messages
We are keeping safety a priority:
We urge customers to watch out for their own wellbeing and the safety of utility crews working during the storm. Here are some tips to help keep everyone safe:
• Never touch downed power lines, and always assume that any fallen lines are live electric wires. If you see one, report it immediately to National Grid or your local emergency response organization.
• Power problems can sometimes interrupt public water supply systems or disable well pumps, so it’s an especially good idea to keep a supply of bottled drinking water handy, as well as some canned food.
• People who depend on electric-powered life support equipment, such as a respirator, should let National Grid know. To register as a life support customer, call the company’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-322-3223.
• Check on elderly family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance during an outage period.
• Report power outages at nationalgridus.com/OutageCentral or call: 1-800-465-1212
Electric safety
• If you use a generator to supply power during an outage, be sure to operate it outdoors. Before operating generators, disconnect from National Grid’s system by shutting off the main breaker located in the electric service panel. Failure to do this could jeopardize the safety of line crews and the public.
• If you lose power, turn off any appliances that were on when the power went off, but leave one light on so you will know when power is restored.
• Reminder: It’s not safe to work in an elevated bucket during periods of increased wind gusts. Our line workers begin restoration work only when conditions are deemed safe.
Gas safety
• Natural gas customers should closely inspect areas around and over gas meters, service hook-ups and vents for ice and snow that could damage equipment or prevent CO from properly venting.
• If you suspect a natural gas leak:
o Get Out - All occupants should leave the house immediately. Do not use the telephone or light switches for any reason.
o Call Us – After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call the National Grid 24-hour gas emergency numbers:
o New England:1-800-640-1595
o Stay Out - Do not return to your home until National Grid tells you it is safe.
Carbon Monoxide
• The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to those of the flu. Depending upon the amount of carbon monoxide in the air and length of exposure, symptoms may include headaches, weakness, confusion, chest tightness, skin redness, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, fluttering of the heart or loss of muscle control.
• If you suspect carbon monoxide is present in your home, go outside immediately and breathe deeply; then call 911. If symptoms are severe, get medical attention right away.
Encouraging Customers to Stay Connected:
• Report power outages at www.nationalgridus.com or call 1-800-465-1212.
• Receive text message alerts and updates when you text the word STORM to NGRID (64743).
• Use your mobile device to track outage information and storm-related safety tips through National Grid’s mobile site accessible at www.ngrid.com/mobile.
• Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram; we post all the latest storm and restoration updates.
• Track outages and ETRs at www.nationalgridus.com/outage-central
Please contact me at 617-263-3380 if you have any questions.
Stay Safe!