Gale force winds could cause power outages in central and southern Maine
Augusta, Maine - Central Maine Power Company (CMP), a subsidiary of Iberdrola USA, is getting ready for a winter storm forecast to move up the east coast and hit Maine on Tuesday. CMP has equipped and fueled utility trucks, and key CMP personnel are holding periodic pre-storm planning sessions to discuss staffing levels and finalize storm-response plans.
“We’ve put our storm response plan into motion, and we’re watching the forecast closely,” said Gail Rice, spokesperson for Central Maine Power. “High winds are always a concern, and while the snow is expected to be dry and less likely to coat tree limbs and wires, it could still create tough travel and working conditions. So we’re getting crews, equipment, and materials in place to respond.”
The utility is checking the availability of contract crews to assist local crews if the storm causes
If outages occur, CMP urges customers to call the toll-free outage hotline: 1.800.696.1000.
CMP offers customers the following tips to prepare for the storm and stay safe and comfortable if power outages do occur.
Before a storm strikes:
- Keep battery-operated flashlights and radios on hand, along with supplies of drinking water and non-perishable foods.
- Make sure that smart phones, tablets, and other mobile devices are fully charged.
- Fill your car’s fuel tank.
During a power interruption:
- To report a power interruption, contact CMP at 1.800.696.1000. Our telephone system automatically creates a work order and sets the stage for dispatch of crews to the outage location.
- When using an emergency heating source, like a wood stove, fireplace, or kerosene heater, keep fuels away from the flames and be sure to ventilate properly.
- Never use grills or camp stoves indoors — they can give off dangerous gases.
- Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible. Most food will last 24 hours or longer if you minimize the opening of refrigerator and freezer doors.
For customers with generators:
- Hire a licensed electrician to install permanent generators and transfer switches.
- Properly ground all portable generators.
- Carefully read and observe all instructions in your generator’s operating manual.
- Never run a generator indoors, or even in an open garage.
- Do not store fuel indoors or try to refuel a generator while it’s running.
- Refer to CMP’s web page on generator safety: http://www.cmpco.com/UsageAndSafety/electricalsafety/GeneratorSafety/default.html
The company urges customers to use caution if they see downed lines.
“Everyone should stay clear of any downed power lines or fallen trees that may be tangled in the lines,” said Rice. “All downed lines should be considered live and dangerous. Customers should leave the clean-up to our crews, who are trained and equipped to handle these situations safely.”
CMP also reminds drivers to use caution when approaching utility crews. The working conditions are difficult, and the workers appreciate everyone’s consideration for their safety.
Additional information on storm safety and restoration, including a town-by-town listing of outages in the CMP service area with an area map, can be found on CMP’s web site at www.cmpco.com.
“Everyone should stay clear of any downed power lines or fallen trees that may be tangled in the lines,” said Rice. “All downed lines should be considered live and dangerous. Customers should leave the clean-up to our crews, who are trained and equipped to handle these situations safely.”
CMP also reminds drivers to use caution when approaching utility crews. The working conditions are difficult, and the workers appreciate everyone’s consideration for their safety.
Additional information on storm safety and restoration, including a town-by-town listing of outages in the CMP service area with an area map, can be found on CMP’s web site at www.cmpco.com.
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