Customers of Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation should be aware of persons posing as utility employees attempting to gain access to their homes. “According to the Hyde Park Police Department, two men posing as Central Hudson employees recently visited a resident to ask permission to use the restroom,” said Charles A. Freni, Senior Vice President of Customer Services. “At the time, neither Central Hudson employees nor utility contractors were working in that neighborhood. It is also our policy that employees may not seek to use residents’ restroom facilities.”

Central Hudson reminds customers that its employees and authorized contractors carry photo identification, and will always display it upon request.

“Our customers’ safety and security are of utmost importance to us, and they should not hesitate to ask our employees or contractors for identification before allowing them on their property or into their home or business,” said Freni. “If, after seeing identification, there is still any uncertainty, customers may ask the individual to wait outside while they call us for verification or contact their local law enforcement agency.

“Our employees and contractors understand that our customers need to know who they are, and are more than willing to accommodate a request for identification,” said Freni. “Residents should never feel embarrassed to ask, and our employees will not take offense. Confirming the identity of our employees is the smart thing to do.”

Customers with any questions about an employee’s identity may call (845) 452-2700, or 1-800-527-2714.

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