STORM UPDATE: National Grid Urging Customers to Stay Safe

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Thursday, July 26, 2012

GoLocalWorcester News Team

National Grid is urging residents in Massachusetts and Rhode Island to take precautions in advance of today’s forecasted storms.

Kathy Lyford, National Grid Operations vice president for New England said national grid is prepared to respond to any storms that may occur.

“We want ourcustomers and communities to know we stand ready to respond to whatever today brings. We’re here for our customers,” Lyford said.

The company is activating storm operations centers across Massachusetts and Rhode Island and is readying extra crews incase the storm causes significant outages. National Grid is working with state and local officials to ensure a coordinated response.

National Grid recommends the following safety tips to keep you safe:

· Seek shelter ASAP. If you can hear thunder then lightning may be close enough to strike.

· Keep a number of working flashlights, a battery operated radio, and an extra supply of batteries. Radios are a good way to stay informed during a power outage.

· Keep a supply of bottled water and canned food as power outages can disrupt the water supply.

· People who depend on electric-powered life support equipment such as respirators should let National Grid know by calling customer service at 800-322-3223. You will receive special instructions and information.

· Keep National Grid’s emergency outrage reporting number – 800-465-1212 - handy.

· If you see a downed power line report it to National Grid and your local emergency response organization. Assume that all lines are energized and dangerous and do not go near them.

Track and report power outages on the Outage Central page at www.nationalgridus.com. Follow National Grid on Twitter @nationalgridus and Facebook to stay informed.