|
Central Hudson Reminds Customers to Prepare for Winter Weather
With the change of seasons, customers of Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation are reminded to prepare now for winter weather and to stay safe around electricity and natural gas.
"During the winter we spend more time indoors, and should keep electrical and natural gas safety in mind," said Central Hudson Senior Vice President of Customer Services Charles A. Freni. "For example, don't overload electrical outlets, and don't run extension cords under carpets. When using space heaters, be sure they carry the seal of a national testing agency such as the Underwriters Laboratory or the American Gas Association, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper clearances and safe use."
At this time of year many heating systems begin working after months of sitting idle, and customers should be-aware of the potential dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. This occurs when an inadequate air supply causes the incomplete burning of any fuel (including oil, coal, natural gas, propane, kerosene or even wood). Symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea or drowsiness, and in severe cases can be fatal. "As a precaution, change the batteries on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors," said
tives to see of they may need Freni. "But if a CO problem is
assistance. "Don't forget to suspected, step outside and call
winterize your home," Freni 911." The homeowner should
noted. "Check and repair the also contact their heating contractor
seals around windows and right away.
doors, and install heavy curtains
"For safety's sake, never use
to keep out the cold. a natural gas oven or range for
Change the filters on your heating space heating, or any purpose
system, and have it professionally for which is was not designed,"
serviced for safe and added Freni. "Also, if you smell
efficient operation. Remember, natural gas, don't light a match
too, that adding humidity will or turn any other electronic
keep homes feeling warmer." devices on or off; don't use a
Other tips include: flashlight, cell phone or telephone;
+Using generators carefully. and be cautious of the
Never operate a portable generator possibility of static electricity,"
inside your home, including he said. "Leave the building
immediately, and call Central
the basement or garage. Do Hudson from another location
not hook up a generator directly as soon as possible at 1-800-
to your home's wiring. 942-8274."
+Following the
Freni added, "Winter storms
manufacturer's instructions can be severe, and customers
when installing, servicing and should be prepared ahead of
operating time. If a storm is forecasted,
appliances, water heaters and have plenty of drinking water
heating systems. and non-perishable food on
+Teach children never to play hand, and ensure that you have
with the controls on gas and adequate prescription medications.
electric appliances. If the storm should strike
For more on safety and energy and interrupt electric service,
conservation, visit contact Central Hudson using
www.CentralHudson.com. To the automated PowerLine at
request your free copy of "A (845) 452-2700 or 1-800-527-
Guide to Safety, Service and 2714 to report your power condition.
Managing Energy Bills for
Central Hudson's Natural Gas
While crews are restoring
Customers," and "Energy Savers: service, avoid using candles for
Tips on Saving Energy at illumination - use a flashlight
Home," send an email to instead. Listen to radio reports
customerservices@cenhud.com, of restoration efforts, and check
or call (845) 452-2700. on elderly neighbors and rela
| 
