Essex, Chester, Deep River, Are You Ready For The Storm?

ESSEX, CT — The town of Essex has put out a Storm Preparedness press release from the Emergency Management Deapartment:

Here we go again, folks… Another winter storm is forecasted for Thursday evening through Friday afternoon. The storm will bring strong winds and very heavy rain during the overnight and early morning hours. Now is the time to prepare for your family’s safety, health and comfort

• Eversource will declare an Emergency Event Level 4 on Thursday evening. They expect 10-29% of customer to lose power (between 125,000-380,000 customers).
• Restoration for a Level 4 Event can range from 2-6 days before customers are substantially restored
• High winds and 40-50 mph gusts will limit the ability of Eversource crews to safely conduct restoration activities.
• Due to the pandemic, you may be asked to stay home and shelter-in-place for a longer duration to help stop the spread of disease.

Prepare for power outages and basement flooding. Freezing temperatures following this storm will make for icy conditions Friday night and into Saturday.

• Clear snow away from downspouts, foundations and storm drains to minimize flooded basements.
• Clear snow away from stationary generators to reduce risk of CO backup into the home.
• Report a power outage directly to Eversource at 800-286-2000 or online at https://www.eversource.com/customercare/ReportOutage
• Have an alternate heat source such as a fireplace or gas-powered heater. Make sure firewood is easily accessible and you have the means to start the fire.
• Fill cars with fuel
• Have sand or deicer/salt available for walkways and driveways.
• Have adequate supply of fuel for generators. Never operate a generator indoors, in a garage or near windows.
• Check or replace batteries in your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors.
• Charge all electronic devices. Check battery powered radios & flashlights. Have extra batteries available.

Prepare to stay home

• Ensure you have an adequate supply of drinking water for everyone in your household (1 gallon per person per day). You will need extra water if there are children in the home
• If someone in your home is ill or has COVID-19, you will need extra water, soap, paper towels, hand sanitizer and surface disinfectants.
• Have non-perishable food, manual can opener, disposable plates and utensils, trash bags, cleaning supplies available.
• Use a gas or charcoal grill for cooking - outdoors only.
• Pet food & pet supplies.
• Cash.
• Ensure you have an adequate supply of prescription medication and oxygen bottles; check that medical devices are functioning properly.
• First aid kit - review and replenish essential items. Update all prescription medication records and doctors’ office phone numbers.
• Call to check on your neighbors & friends