Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

Major Energy and Environmental News and Commentary affecting the Nuclear Industry.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Winter Storm Warning


Winter Storm Warning
National Grid is preparing for yet another winter storm that is expected to bring freezing temperatures to our regions. Our crews and personnel are ready to respond should there be any outages. If you experience a power outage, you can report it by visiting our website or by calling 1-800-465-1212.
While storm preparations are important, so too is the safety of our customers and employees. We would like to advise customers to be prepared as high winds, heavy snow and ice can pose a serious safety risk. With driving conditions expected to be potentially treacherous, we also urge particular caution when driving around crew work locations, especially where visibility might be limited by blowing snow.
To ensure your safety, please make note of the following tips:
  • Never touch downed power lines, and always assume that any fallen lines are live electric wires. If you see one, report it immediately to National Grid or your local emergency response organization.
  • People who depend on electric-powered life support equipment, such as a respirator, should let National Grid know. To register as a life support customer, call the company's Customer Service Center at 1-800-322-3223.
  • If you use a generator to supply power during an outage, be sure to operate it outdoors. Before operating generators, disconnect from National Grid's system by shutting off the main breaker located in the electric service panel. Failure to do this could jeopardize the safety of line crews and the public.
  • Power outages can sometimes interrupt public water supply systems or disable well pumps, so it's an especially good idea to keep a supply of bottled drinking water handy, as well as some canned food.
  • Check on elderly family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance during an outage period.
We expect the extreme cold to linger over the next several days and want our customers to be aware of the dangers of cold stress or hypothermia. Cold stress, or hypothermia, occurs when exposure to extreme cold temperatures causes the body's temperature to fall below 95 degrees. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
  • Skin that is cool to the touch
  • Violent shivering
  • Difficulty in speaking or moving
  • Slowed breathing
  • Drowsiness
  • Sudden change in appearance or behavior
    • Puffy or swollen face
  • Trembling in arm, leg or one side of body
  • Cold and stiff muscles
  • Difficulty with coordination and balance
The following tips help to minimize potential cold stress:
  • Dress properly
    • Layer loose-fitting clothing
    • Wear mittens instead of gloves
    • Wear a hat and a scarf
    • Avoid alcohol — it can increase your body's heat loss
    • Remember that certain drugs can increase risk by affecting the body's ability to regulate its temperature
Stay connected
In addition to email alerts, National Grid offers a variety of ways to stay informed during the storm:
  • Receive text message alerts and updates when you text the word STORM to NGRID (64743).
  • Download the National Grid app which can be found in the Apple and GooglePlay stores. The app will allow you to report and check the status of your outage, view outage maps, access important safety tips and more.
  • Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram; we post all the latest storm and restoration updates.
National Grid
Here with you. Here for you.

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