With the recent string of summer storms, Central Hudson reminds customers to take steps to be prepared for severe weather and offers ways in which the community can stay informed during emergencies.

“Have a plan in place so that you know what to do in an emergency,” said James P. Laurito, president of Central Hudson. “This may include checking on vulnerable neighbors or family members, and having adequate emergency supplies on hand such as non-perishable and ready-to-eat foods, bottled water, prescription medications and cash,” he said. “Be sure flashlights are working, have a supply of spare batteries, and keep a battery-operated radio on hand to stay informed of storm and restoration updates and the locations of community resources.”

Other ways to prepare include:

*Paying close attention to weather advisories and storm warnings

*Having a telephone that does not require an electric outlet to operate

*Charging cell phones, or having a car cell phone charger

*Refueling vehicles and ensuring that they are in good working condition

*Knowing how to manually open automatic garage doors

If power is interrupted, customers should turn off or unplug appliances to reduce the risk of damage when power is restored and leave on a light or two to know when power is restored.

If a storm should strike and power is interrupted, Laurito advised customers to keep safety in mind. “For example, avoid the use of candles for illumination, and use generators outdoors only and follow the manufacturers’ instructions,” he said. “Also, never use outdoor gas or charcoal grills indoors, as they pose a fire hazard and over time can give off deadly carbon monoxide gas. He emphasized that these items should be used outside only with proper ventilation. Similarly, operate cars and motor vehicles outdoors, and never in a closed garage.

Other ways to keep safe include:

*Keeping away from downed power lines, and lines which may be entangled and hidden in fallen trees. Assume all downed lines are live, and stay at least 30 feet away.

*Avoiding travel; but if necessary, exercise extreme caution, as downed trees and lines, together with the potential for flash flooding, may create hazardous driving conditions.

*Being aware that localized flooding may potentially undermine underground utilities, including natural gas lines, and report any gas odors; and calling 911 to report public emergencies, such as dangerous tree conditions.

To report outages and get updates:

Behind The Story

Type: News

News: Based on facts, either observed and verified directly by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.

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