BUFFALO, N.Y. — With the threat of storms headed for Western New York, there is the potential for power outages.
Here are some tips from on what to do if your power goes out.
What to do ahead of a storm:
- Charge your cell phones, laptop, or other devices.
- Download the 2 On Your Side APP to stay information on the latest weather forecast.
- Turn the refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings. This will keep food fresh longer in the event of a power outage. If there is an outage, frozen foods will keep about 24 hours. In the fridge, food will stay fresh for about 6-9 hours before spoiling.
- If you or a loved one need an life-sustaining medical device, make sure that you notify your electric company ahead of time.
- To avoid overloading circuits when power is restored, disconnect or turn off any appliances that start automatically, like computers or TV equipment.
RELATED: Storm Team 2 Weather Forecast
What to do during a power outage:
- Be careful of downed wires. They may be energized and dangerous. To report downed electric wires, you can call National Grid at: 1-800-867-5222 or NYSEG at: 1-800-572-1131
- Leave a light switch on. To signal when the power comes back on.
- Never operate a generator indoors.
- Check on your family or neighbors who might need help.
- You may have to go to an alternate location during an extended outage, especially those with family members who have special needs.
If you are life-threatening situation, you should call 911.
To view a list of power outage for National Grid, check here: https://www.nationalgridus.com/Upstate-NY-Home/Outage-Central/Outage-Map
To view a list of power outage for NYSEG, check here: https://www.nyseg.com/outages/reportorviewoutage/viewoutagelist
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