It is hard to believe that on the anniversary of the historic “Snowtober” of 2011, we are preparing for another possible historic storm.  PSNH is already in preparation mode and we are among many utilities along the East Coast keeping an eye on the forecast.  Power outages in the region appear likely early next week if Hurricane Sandy develops and tracks in the manner that some meteorologists are predicting.

In order to prepare, a number of local contractor crews have already been secured, and the company is working to retain additional line workers and support staff.  We have 100 contracted tree trimming crews who will be pre-staged at our area work centers and satellites by Friday p.m., and ready to go by Sunday.  

As you know, we have some customers who are medically required to have electricity at all times.  We have made electronic calls to those customers today and will electronically call all other customers to warn them to take the necessary steps to prepare for extended power outages.  While electric utilities like PSNH work around-the-clock to restore service when power outages occur, it is also important that families and individuals consider how they will respond, especially in the event of a major event that lasts for several days.  Please warn your families and constituents to obtain fresh fuel for generators, ensure a full gas tank and other useful supplies.  A list of preparedness tips and reminders is posted at www.psnh.com and at www.nh.gov/readynh/.

PSNH uses a variety of communications tools to keep the public informed during restoration efforts.  Follow PSNH on twitter @ psnh or on Facebook for teal time updates.  We also use a blog, www.psnhnews.com, to post press releases, outage updates and other important storm related information.  Your constituents can also access PSNH’s outage map to see up to date outage information about their community on our website as well.

As always, I am here to answer any of your questions that I can and I promise that all of our employees on already in storm mode to make this less difficult on our customers.

Sincerely,
Donna

Donna Gamache
Director, Governmental Affairs
Public Service of New Hampshire
780 No. Commercial Street, Manchester, NH  03105
Office: 603.634.2881
Cell: 603.345.0994
email: gamacdm@psnh.com