Residents Are Urged to Plan for Possible Extended Power Outages

The Town of Simsbury’s Emergency Operations staff members strongly advise Simsbury residents to be aware of falling trees, flooding and downed power lines in light of hurricane Irene and to prepare for power outages potentially lasting for several days following the storm.  

“Residents are urged to find a safe place to wait out the storm and to make provisions to shelter in place for up to 72 hours while public safety responders clear roads and restore power,” said First Selectman Mary Glassman.

Glassman said town police, fire, ambulance and public works crews have been preparing for the last three days to ensure the town is prepared for Hurricane Irene.

The Town’s Emergency Operations personnel met Friday morning and have also been in regular communication and briefing sessions with the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services. 

“We’re doing everything necessary to ensure that our residents are protected, that roadways are quickly cleared and that power is restored as a result of Hurricane Irene,” Glassman said.  

“ has been identified as an emergency shelter and will be opened by emergency personnel once high winds subside and if necessary to provide shelter, meals and showers,” said Police Chief Peter Ingvertsen.

“Residents should expect overflowing rivers and streams, particularly in areas that have experienced flooding in previous rainstorms,” Ingvertsen added.

Residents are advised to take the following steps:

• Cash, gas and water: Make sure you have sufficient cash, gas and water, as well as canned goods and a non-electric can opener, to last at least 72 hours. For a complete list of the steps you should take in advance of the storm, log on to http://www.simsburyfd.org/ and click on the link under “Are you prepared for Hurricane Irene?”
• Generators: If you plan to use a generator in the event of a power failure, make sure to locate the generator outside of your house. If power is restored, immediately shut off your generator.
• Stay safe: Do not attempt to leave your residence during the storm. Trees and power lines may be down and in addition to interfering with emergency personnel, travel at this time can be extremely dangerous.  If you have an emergency situation, call 911.
• Emergency shelters: If it becomes necessary, the town will open Simsbury High School as its primary shelter after the storm has subsided. For more information about the status of town shelters, contact the at 860-658-3100.
• Reporting power outages: If you experience a power outage, contact the Connecticut Light & Power Customer Experience Center at 800-286-2000. CL&P’s website (http://www.cl-p.com/Home) also has useful information to help you prepare for a power outage. Be prepared for a power outage to last up to three to four days.
• Town emergency services and water refills after the storm: All of the town’s fire departments and its police department will be staffed at all times during and after the storm. Once the storm has subsided, water can be accessed at all of the town’s six fire houses.
• Emergency and routine calls: Do not call 911 unless you have an emergency. If you have a working telephone or cell phone you can contact the police department at 860-658-3100 or the fire department at 860-658-1971.

Visit the town website at www.simsbury-ct.gov for more information about the hurricane, as well as additional contact information.