September is National Preparedness Month - Do You Have a Plan?

MANCHESTER, NH — In a region where unpredictable weather is a part of life, New Englanders know severe storms can strike at any time. As Eversource recognizes National Preparedness Month, the company is reminding customers and businesses to take the time to plan for unexpected emergencies, according to a press statement.

"Advanced planning is the key to staying safe during storms and extended outages," said Peter Clarke, senior vice president of Emergency Preparedness at Eversource. "We're always working to ensure our employees and customers are ready for emergencies. We participate in statewide emergency drills, collaborate with community leaders to reinforce our storm and safety response protocols, and use multiple communication channels, including social media, to get important information to our customers."

National Preparedness Month is recognized during the month of September and is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This year, National Preparedness Month focuses on preparedness for youth, older adults, people with disabilities, and others with access and functional needs.

Eversource encourages any customer using a home medical device powered by electricity to plan for continued use of the device during a power outage, and to alert local first responders to their use of the device. Customers who depend on electricity for critical medical needs should also sign up to receive direct notification when major storm events are anticipated by calling Eversource at 1-800-662-7764.

"After a severe storm and during extended outages, it's important to check in on elderly neighbors and neighbors with limited mobility," said Clarke. "Customers should also plan for the unique needs of small children, particularly when temperatures are extremely high or low during a power outage."

To help customers and businesses plan for emergencies before, during and after a storm, Eversource provides important information on its website, including tips for building an Emergency Kit with essential items, staying safe during an outage and safety hazards to watch for after an outage or storm.

Submitted by Kaitlyn Woods.