1. Follow Official Instructions: Stay tuned to your local news on radio or battery-operated devices for updates and instructions from public safety officials. They will provide critical information regarding safety and restoration efforts.
2. Report Emergencies: If you witness any emergencies such as downed power lines or other hazardous situations, call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not approach downed lines; they pose serious risks, including electrocution.
3. Contact Your Utility Company: To report power outages and obtain the latest restoration information, reach out to your utility provider directly. For National Grid customers, call 800-322-3223; for Eversource customers, call 1-800-592-2000.
4. Stay Clear of Downed Wires: Always treat downed utility wires as if they are live. Maintain a safe distance and alert authorities to ensure proper handling.
5. Navigating Traffic Lights: If you encounter an intersection with a non-functioning traffic light, approach the intersection with caution, treating it as a four-way stop. Yield to vehicles already in the intersection and proceed only when safe.
6. Fire Safety Preparedness: Keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible in case of emergencies. Familiarize yourself with how to use it and ensure it is charged and ready for use.
7. Use Generators Safely: If you are using a generator for power, operate it outdoors in a well-ventilated area away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Also, verify that your carbon monoxide detectors are fully functional.
8. Lighting Recommendations: Whenever possible, utilize flashlights for lighting during the outage instead of candles to reduce fire risks. If candles are necessary, ensure they are in sturdy holders placed away from flammable objects. Never leave burning candles unattended, and refrain from sleeping with candles lit.
9. Protect Electronics: To safeguard sensitive electronics from potential power surges when electricity is restored, unplug them. This simple action can prevent damage to your devices.
10. Keep Food Safe: To maintain food safety, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. An unopened refrigerator can keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer can retain its temperature for roughly 48 hours, provided the door remains closed.
11. Check on Neighbors: Be a considerate and helpful neighbor during an outage. Reach out to family, friends, and neighbors, particularly the elderly, those living alone, individuals with medical conditions, and anyone who may require additional support. Your compassion can make a significant difference in their well-being during an unsettling time.