CL&P Opens Emergency Center

Connecticut Light & Power has announced it is opening its Emergency Operations Center in Berlin Saturday today in preparation for any power problems caused by the forecasted high winds.

Line and tree crews have been pre-staged and ready in various locations across the 149 cities and towns the company services.

"We are making sure we are ready to go if the winds cause issues," said Jim Muntz, president and chief operating officer, CL&P.  "The line crews, the tree crews, all support staff and additional contract resources are all standing by."

In the meantime, CL&P reminds customers:

• Any storm could result in power outages, so we urge all customers to be prepared with a "Lights Out" kit containing a flashlight, fresh water, prescription medicine, prepared foods, cash and other items needed if the lights go out. It's also wise to fill your car's gas tank.
• Report your power outage by calling CL&P at 800-286-2000.  Our automated phone system rapidly processes your report and helps us speed restoration efforts.  It also provides restoration estimates as soon as they’re available.
• Stay away from all downed wires. Assume any downed, hanging or burning power lines are live and dangerous and call 9-1-1 immediately.  If a power line falls on your vehicle while you’re inside, stay there.  Don’t touch anything outside the vehicle and wait for emergency crews.
• Before operating a generator, make sure it has been properly installed by a licensed electrician.  Improperly installed generators can feed electricity back into power lines and pose a deadly situation for our line workers.  Always operate generators outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide hazards.