Berlin, CT - March 16, 2010 – During this very active period of restoration work being performed on Connecticut Light & Power’s damaged distribution system, customers are warned that power lines may become energized at any time.
- Keep your distance from downed lines or damaged distribution system equipment, and keep children and pets away as well. There is no way to tell a “live” line from one that is not energized by looking at it.
- Never drive over a downed power line.
- Never touch anything in contact with a power line. Trees, guardrails, fences, rain puddles and even the painted line on a road surface can conduct electricity far from the point of contact.
- If you are not sure that a downed power line has been reported, call your local police or fire department (9-1-1) or CL&P at 800-286-2000 (860-947-2000 in the Hartford/Meriden area).
Trees and the distribution system continue to be in a weakened state. Tree limbs may snap and fall days after the storm, and knock down power lines at any time. If you are in a vehicle or other enclosure and a power line falls on it, 1) stay inside, 2) call 9-1-1 immediately, and 3) warn others seeking to help you that they should not approach and that they should wait for emergency responders to arrive.
The Connecticut Light and Power Company (CL&P) has been part of everyday life in Connecticut for more than 100 years, providing safe and reliable electric service to homes, neighborhoods and businesses. With 1.2 million customers in 149 cities and towns, CL&P is improving the environments you live in, by offering programs in energy conservation, economic development and environmental stewardship. CL&P is a Northeast Utilities company (NYSE: NU). For more information, please visit www.cl-p.com.