BUFFALO, N.Y. — While crews from National Grid and NYSEG continue to restore power to thousands across Western New York due to Tuesday's storm, another wind event is forecast for Friday.
What should you do if the power goes out? National Grid issued these tips to follow to keep safe.
Electricity & Generator Safety
- If a power outage occurs, customers can notify National Grid online to expedite restoration.
- Generators used to supply power during an outage must be operated outdoors to prevent the buildup of deadly carbon monoxide. Before operating a generator, be sure to disconnect from National Grid’s system by shutting off the main breaker, located in the electric service panel. Failure to do this could endanger our crews and your neighbors.
- Customers who depend on electrically powered life support equipment, such as a respirator, should register as a life support customer by calling National Grid at 1-800-642-4272. In a medical emergency, always dial 911.
- Keep working flashlights and an extra supply of batteries in your home and be sure to charge all electronic devices before the storm.
- If the power is out, use flashlights or other battery-powered lights. Do not use candles, which can pose a fire hazard.
- Please use caution when driving near emergency responders and crews restoring power.
- Be sure to check on elderly family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance during an outage.
Safety Near Downed Power Lines
- Always use extreme caution near downed power lines and wires, and always assume that they are carrying live electricity.
- Never touch a person or an object that is in contact with a downed line, as electricity can pass through to you.
- Take caution when approaching fallen trees, which could have power lines caught in them.
- Remember that water can conduct electricity. If you see a line down in a puddle or flooded area, avoid contact with the water to prevent risk of shock.
National Grid customers with active accounts who experience an outage can text ‘REG’ to 64743 can have personalized alerts sent to them via text, email or phone call when we detect an outage on their properties. Customers also can text ‘OUT’ to 64743 to report an outage.
NYSEG customer can call 1-800-572-1131 to report an outage.
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