Emergency officials released lists of instructions to help prevent the worst of the dangers associated with the impending ice storm.

The National Weather Service in Gray asked those who are facing the storm to avoid travel if at all possible.

Those who must travel are asked to stock their vehicles with extra flashlights, food and water, and to be aware of the likelihood of slippery roads and downed trees, branches or power lines in the road.

Central Maine Power Co. advised that, during a power interruption, customers call 800-696-1000 to report the outage. An automated phone system tracks the calls and creates work orders for power line crews.

In order to reduce risks associated with alternative heat and power sources, the power company asked customers to ventilate properly and keep fuels away from the flames.

For those using generators, the company reminded customers to make sure they are properly grounded and not used indoors.

Advertisement

Generators should be placed at least 15 feet from the structure to be supplied with power, to guard against possible carbon monoxide poisoning.

Early warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, nausea, vomiting and dizziness.

Fuel should not be stored indoors and should not be used to refuel a generator while it’s running.

Those who experience an extended power loss are advised to minimize the opening of freezers and refrigerators. If their doors are kept closed as much as possible, most food inside will last at least 24 hours.


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.