Hurricane Preparedness

Post date: Aug 28, 2011 2:55:21 PM

Hurricane hazards come in many forms in Western Massachusetts: High winds, tornadoes and flooding. This means it is important for your family to have a plan that includes all of these hazards. Look carefully at the safety actions associated with each type of hurricane hazard and prepare your family disaster plan accordingly. But remember this is only a guide. The first and most important thing anyone should do when facing a hurricane threat is to use common sense.

You should be able to answer the following questions before a hurricane threatens. Here are links to some tips from the NOAA National Hurricane Center Hurricane Preparedness web site:

http://www.fema.gov/kids/

What to do in Case of a Power Outage

    • If you are without power, call Western Massachusetts Electric Co. (WMECO) at 781-4300 and report your outage. An automated system can walk you through the process.
    • Turn off your lights (except one) and unplug major appliances and electronics to prevent electrical overload when the power is restored.
    • Leave one light on so you'll know when power is restored.
    • If your neighbor's power comes back on but yours does not, call WMECO. There may be damage that they are unaware of.

When You Call WMECO

    • Be prepared to give your account number, name, telephone number and address, as well as a cross street.
    • Tell them if you heard a loud boom, can see an accident, can see sparks or know of downed trees or poles in your neighborhood. Be as specific as possible as this information is helpful to us when restoring power.

More information on power outages from the WMECO web site

WMECO power outage map

More Emergency Preparedness Information