In an earlier column, Mayor John Watras shared some helpful tips on how to secure your property in preparation for a hurricane. The following are additional recommendations on what you can do now to be prepared in the event that a major storm hits Long Island.
As the storm approaches, customers should take the following steps to prepare for the arrival of either a hurricane or tropical storm:
• Never touch or go near fallen wires, even if you think they are safe. Parents can use this opportunity to remind children that wires are dangerous. If you are in a vehicle that comes in contact with a downed wire, stay in your vehicle until help arrives.
• Make sure you have a working, battery-powered radio or television and a good supply of fresh replacement batteries. Have flashlights available for all family members.
• Make sure all motor-driven equipment, such as garage door openers, can be operated manually.
• When using a portable generator, make sure all electrical powered equipment is disconnected. This will avoid severe hazards when reconnecting the power to your home or business.
• Have a first aid kit at home and check its contents to make sure they are complete and up-to-date. If you have family members with special medical needs, such as insulin or other prescription drugs, check to make sure you have an adequate supply.
• Do not use charcoal to cook indoors; deadly carbon monoxide gas can accumulate in your home.
• If you have an elderly neighbor, be a Good Samaritan and check on his or her status. Even a quick telephone call during a storm can provide much appreciated assurance that help is nearby if needed. Should telephone service be lost, as was in 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, please make a personal visit.
• Should an electric power interruption occur, all sensitive equipment, such as computers and televisions should be disconnected until service is restored.
PSEG has also asked that their customers to be alert. If you see repair crews working on downed power lines, please drive carefully. Expect delays and exercise caution when driving near any of the repair crews working to restore your power. For more detailed information regarding hurricanes and the steps customers should take to prepare for the possibility that the storm could hit Long Island, customers should go to www.pseg.com. Please take these suggestions seriously; they can save your life. Any downed wires should be treated as if it is a live electric wire. Keep away and call PSEG 24/7 at 800-490-0075.
From the Mayor’s Office
