National Grid boosts staffing with outages expected from powerful winds

Press Release, National Grid

National Grid is increasing staffing and extending evening and overnight work shifts as the company prepares for a severe weather system that is anticipated to begin Sunday evening and continue through Tuesday morning across Upstate New York.

Weather forecasts are predicting heavy snow, sleet, freezing rain, and wind gusts that could approach 70 mph.

We anticipate large portions of Upstate New York to be impacted, including the shorelines of Lakes Erie and Ontario, and the Genesee Valley, Central New York, Tug Hill, Mohawk Valley, Capital and Adirondack regions.

Additionally, the company has secured external resources to support potential power restoration efforts. The company also has activated its comprehensive emergency response plan.

Customers are reminded to keep safety a priority with the following reminders:

• If a power outage occurs, customers can notify National Grid online to expedite restoration.
• 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 the electric service panel. Failure to do this could endanger our crews and your 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.
• Stay tuned to local news outlets or the National Weather Service for storm updates, weather alerts
• Keep working flashlights and an extra supply of batteries in your home and be sure to charge all electronic devices.
• If the power is out, use flashlights or other battery-powered lights. Do not use candles, which can pose a fire hazard.
• Please use caution when driving near emergency responders and crews restoring power.
• Be sure to check on elderly family members, neighbors, and others who may need assistance during an outage.