PSEG Long Island Prepares for Another Winter Storm

Crews and Equipment Ready to Serve

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Jan 21, 2014, 10:05 ET

UNIONDALE, N.Y., Jan. 21, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- PSEG Long Island is preparing for another arctic blast that is expected to bring freezing temperatures, gusting wind and accumulating snow to Long Island and the Rockaways later today.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140121/NY49759LOGO)

In anticipation of the storm, PSEG Long Island is taking the following steps to ensure that the utility is ready to respond to any resulting power outages:

Performing system checks on critical transmission & distribution equipment;
Arranging for contractors, including tree crews, to assist the utility's own skilled workforce;
Performing logistics checks – ensuring availability of critical materials, fuel and other supplies;
Coordinating with county and municipal emergency management personnel to inform them of the preparation work, what to expect and how the utility will respond.

As with 2014's first frigid winter storm, it isn't the snow that is expected that poses a serious problem. The potential heavy snow, icing and strong winds are what increases the possibility of downed wires and associated power outages. Cars striking utility poles can also cause wires to come down.

To report downed wires or power outages, customers should call PSEG Long Island's Customer Service line at 1-800-490-0075. PSEG Long Island uses an automated system to handle customer calls as efficiently as possible. Customers who get an automated response when calling PSEG Long Island are encouraged to use it, as it is designed to route their calls to the right destination. If you have specific information regarding damage to wires, transformers or poles, PSEG Long Island asks that you stay on the line to speak with a representative to provide that information.

Customers with a handheld device can also report power outages by texting "OUT" to PSEGLI (773454). You will receive confirmation that your outage has been submitted and will begin receiving ongoing updates as the status of your outage changes. This requires a one-time registration, to register, text REG to PSEGLI (773454) or visit My Account. General outage activity throughout our service territory is also available online at www.psegliny.com and updates are posted on www.psegliny.com/stormcenter during severe weather.

In addition, if outages are widespread, the utility will activate its Twitter page to keep the public informed about our restoration progress. Sign up as a follower at http://twitter.com/PSEGLI to monitor restoration progress.

At PSEG Long Island, employee and customer safety is first and foremost. Remember, safety is always the only choice.

WHEN YOU DRIVE PAST OUR WORKSITES OR VEHICLES
Please slow down and be alert when driving past a PSEG Long Island roadwork jobsite, especially in snowy, icy weather. Driving too fast can endanger employees and hamper their ability to perform important work. PSEG Long Island crews use work area protection – traffic cones, utility work signs and flaggers – to protect them and to allow them to do their jobs safely. Follow safe driving techniques to prevent fender-benders or more serious collisions that could delay our service technicians as they respond to customer calls or emergencies.

DOWNED POWER LINES
Accumulation of ice and heavy snow may weigh down power lines and as a result cause power lines to come down. Downed wires may appear dead but should always be considered "live." STAY AWAY FROM ALL DOWNED LINES. Do not approach or drive over a downed line and do not touch anything that it might be in contact with. Parents are urged to check for downed wires in areas where their children might play and to remind the children to stay far away from any wires. If a wire falls on a vehicle, passengers should stay in the vehicle until help arrives. To report a downed wire, call 1-800-490-0075 and tell PSEG Long Island the nearest cross street.

CUSTOMERS WITH LIFE-SUSTAINING EQUIPMENT
Individuals who rely on electricity to operate life-sustaining electronic equipment, such as a respirator or dialysis machine, should pre-register with PSEG Long Island to receive priority attention in the event of an outage. To request the service, call PSEG Long Island at 1-800-490-0025. They should also inform their rescue squads and fire departments of their needs, in case of emergency. Even though customers with life-sustaining equipment who have registered with PSEG Long Island will receive priority attention during outages, they should also have emergency back-up equipment on hand, since immediate restoration cannot be guaranteed.

IF YOU LOSE POWER
First check your neighborhood. If you are the only one without power, check your fuse box for tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses. If that's not the problem, look outside at the wire between your house and the utility pole. If it is down, report it immediately to PSEG Long Island.

GENERAL TIPS
Mother Nature can be unpredictable. It's wise to have an emergency kit on hand year round. Here are some things to include:

A battery powered radio
A corded telephone (Cordless phones will not work if the power is out)
Flashlights and extra fresh batteries
A first-aid kit
Bottled water and an adequate supply of non-perishable food
A non-electric can opener
Matches and candles with holders
Extra blankets and sleeping bags
A list of emergency phone numbers, including PSEG Long Island's Customer Service line: 1-800-490-0075. Call this number to report power outages or downed wires.

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SOURCE PSEG Long Island