January 6, 2009
For release:  Immediately
Contact:    John S. Maserjian, (845) 471-8323

    Central Hudson Winter Storm Advisory

Customers of Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation should be prepared for the possibility of power outages on Wednesday as a result of an ice storm that may impact the Mid-Hudson Valley.

The National Weather Service predicts sleet and freezing rain conditions on Wednesday, with possible ice accumulations that may cause power outages. Customers can prepare for the possibility electric service interruptions by:

  • Keeping a flashlight and fresh batteries handy;
  • Having a battery-powered radio to keep informed of restoration efforts;
  • Stocking water and packaged or canned foods that require no refrigeration or cooking. Avoid opening your refrigerator unnecessarily during outages, so food lasts longer;
  • Ensuring adequate supplies of prescription medications and other necessities.

If power is lost, contact Central Hudson’s automated PowerLine at (845) 452-2700 or 1-800-527-2714. Central Hudson will provide restoration updates to the local news media, and customers may check on the status of repairs on-line. Customers should also keep safety in mind by:

  • Keeping away from downed power lines;
  • Avoiding the use of candles for illumination;
  • Never using outdoor gas or charcoal grills indoors, as they pose a fire hazard and over time can give off deadly carbon monoxide gas. Use these appliances only outdoors with proper ventilation;
  • Following the manufacturer’s safety instructions on the use of emergency generators, and operating units outdoors and only in well-ventilated areas to avoid exhaust fumes containing carbon monoxide. 

 

For more information on how to prepare for storms that may affect electric service, steps to take if power lost and to check on repair status, visit www.CentralHudson.com, and click on the Outages button.

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