Exercise Caution During and After Severe Storm

As Sandy arrives in the Hudson Valley, Central Hudson is reporting that more than 5,000 customers in Ulster County and more than 3,000 in Dutchess County are currently without power.

With the arrival of damaging winds and rain associated with Hurricane Sandy, Central Hudson customers are being reminded to avoid hazards by observing states of emergency; keeping away from  downed power lines; and following safety guidelines at home. “Hurricane Sandy  is forecasted to be an extremely significant event here the Mid-Hudson Valley,  and impacts are expected to be widespread,” said James P. Laurito, President of Central  Hudson.

If power is lost,  customers should call Central Hudson’s PowerLine at (845) 452-2700 or  1-800-527-2714 to report their power condition, and they are encouraged to use  the automated reporting system.

SAFETY NEAR POWER LINES

• You cannot tell if a downed power line is energized just by looking at it. Assume all lines are live and stay away from them.

• Stay at least 30 feet away from downed power lines.

• Call 911 to report any down wires. 

• Do not drive over downed power lines.

• Be careful not to touch or step in water near where a downed power line is located. 

• If your car comes in contact with a downed power line while you are inside,  stay in the car. Honk your horn to summon help, but direct others to stay away   from your car. Stay inside and wait for rescue   crews. Do not try to help someone else from the car while you are standing on   the ground. If you do, you will become a path for electricity. In the event of a   fire, jump clear from the car without touching the car and the ground at the   same time; then shuffle away, keeping both feet on the ground at the same time,   and taking care not to contact any wires or touch any object near the site of   the accident.