Central Hudson Responding to Winter Storm

POUGHKEEPSIE – Field crews of Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation are responding to small, scattered outages throughout their eight-county service territory as a result of the winter storm bearing down on the Hudson River Valley. Fewer than 10,000 customers were without service about 12 hours after the snow began to fall, and virtually all of the largest outages are clustered in Ulster County.

            “We are facing several large repairs due to the increased wind speeds and continued snowfall. But generally, as a result of continued investment and maintenance, our electric system is holding up well to the dramatic conditions that we’ve experienced so far in this storm,” said Senior Vice President of Customer Services and Transmission and Distribution Charles A. Freni. “We have a field force of more than 300 professionals responding to various outages, and we certainly recognize how critical it is that we restore service to everyone as quickly as possible due to the cold temperatures.”

            Freni applauded the public work crews that are clearing roadways in order to allow utility equipment to reach hard-hit locations. He also encouraged customers not to drive. “We’ve experienced several service interruptions as a result of motor vehicle accidents. Please heed the emergency warnings, and stay off the roads.”

            He reiterated the following advice:

            BE SAFE

• Stay at least 30 feet away from downed power lines, and remember that lines may be entangled and hidden in fallen trees. Assume all downed lines are live.
• Beware of fallen trees and limbs, and use caution or traveling.
• Avoid the use of candles for illumination due to fire hazards.
• Follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions on the use of emergency generators, and be sure to shut off the main breaker when in use and operate the units outdoors.
• Never use outdoor gas or charcoal grills indoors, as they pose a fire hazard and over time can give off deadly carbon monoxide gas.
• Operate cars and motor vehicles outdoors only, and never inside the garage.