WEB EXTRA: NSTAR Offers Storm Prep Tips

ABC6 News

NSTAR Prepared for Hurricane Earl

 (BOSTON, September 1, 2010) As Hurricane Earl continues to track toward the Massachusetts coast, bringing with it the potential for damaging winds across much of NSTAR's service area, the company stands prepared to repair any damage caused to its electric system. Plans are well underway to increase the number of lineworkers and support staff available to respond to any storm-related power outages.

“Hurricane Earl will be putting Massachusetts to the test in the next few days, with residents on Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard bracing for the brunt of its impact,” said Werner Schweiger, NSTAR's Senior Vice President of Operations. “In recent years, NSTAR has invested over a billion dollars on upgrades to our electrical system, an investment that will pay dividends for customers during and after this major storm.”

NSTAR's senior management and emergency response team are closely monitoring weather forecasts as they set the company's emergency restoration plans in motion, with all employees on notice to stand ready to assist in the effort. Response plans also include relocating lineworkers and support staff to areas hardest hit by the storm, and calling in electrical and tree contractors to supplement NSTAR's staff.

IF YOUR POWER GOES OUT:

To report a power outage, NSTAR customers should call 1-800-592-2000.

STAY AWAY FROM DOWNED WIRES. Assume all downed wires are “live” and stay away. Call your electric company and local emergency personnel.

Persons dependent on electrically powered life support systems should have a prearranged plan concerning power outage situations. Family members should have a list of emergency phone numbers readily available.

Be careful never to leave open flames unattended.

Turn off major appliances and electronics during the outage to guard against damage when the power comes back on. Leave one light switched on as a signal for when the power is restored.

Surge protectors, which are available at local electronics stores, can protect sensitive equipment during an outage and when power is restored.

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES TO KEEP HANDY:

Emergency supplies should be stored in an easy to reach area.

  • Emergency food – be aware of the expiration dates and replace as required

  • Flashlights – have several and place them throughout the house

  • Portable, battery-operated radio

  • Fresh batteries – of the correct size for flashlights and radio

  • Manual can opener

  • First aid kit

  • Water – for drinking, cooking and flushing

  • Pet food

For more information about NSTAR or electrical safety, visit: www.nstar.com.

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