The first major winter storm of the season is upon us and Green Mountain Power is ready to respond to outages caused by wet heavy snow beginning in southern Vermont and making its way north throughout Wednesday and into Thursday. In preparation of the storm, hundreds of GMP employees have been stationed around the state and crews will work around the clock and throughout the holiday tomorrow, as necessary, to restore outages as quickly as possible. In addition, GMP has lined up additional lineworkers and tree trimmers to be available should wet, heavy snow cause extensive damage.
“The safety of our employees and the public is very important as this storm makes its way across Vermont. Getting the lights on quickly and safely is priority number one for everyone at GMP,” said Kristin Carlson, Green Mountain Power spokesperson. “With the likelihood of trees bringing down power lines, we ask that the public stay safely away from downs lines or anything touching a downed line, as they could still be carrying electricity. Please contact emergency personal and GMP to report downed lines and outages.”
GMP continues to keep a close eye on the weather and urges Vermonters to stay safe during this busy travel day. Right now it looks like snow will fall statewide, with the hardest hit areas being the Southern part of the state in Windsor, Windham, Rutland & Bennington Counties.
“This is a time to come together with family and friends and give thanks for the many blessings in our lives. We want to extend a very Happy Thanksgiving from our family at GMP to yours,” Carlson added.
GMP will continue to monitor conditions closely and will keep the public updated through Facebook, Twitter and media announcements.
Customers may sign up for text service to report outages and get updates. Simply text REG to 46788 or GMPVT, or sign up online at greenmountainpower.com/textalerts. You must have your account number for the initial sign up. As always, customers may report outages by calling 1-888-835-4672, or visiting GMP’s Outage Center page at www.greenmountainpower.com. To get updates through social media like our Facebook page at facebook.com/greenmountainpower or follow us on twitter @greenmoutnainpower
GMP offered the following safety advice:
· GMP encourages the public to stay safe and report downed lines and outages by calling 1-888-835-4672. Contact your local first responders to report emergencies
· If you have a cell phone, make sure it is charged so you can make calls in an emergency
· If using a generator, read and follow the owner’s manual before starting it. Never operate a generator inside any structure or near a structure. Use a transfer switch to ensure electricity is not accidentally fed onto a line where line crews must work.