Utilities

Entering your home or building after a hurricane

When entering buildings after a hurricane, be extra cautious. Flood waters can cause unexpected damage, so watch your step closely. Here are some tips:

  • If you have evacuated, return home only when authorities say it’s safe to do so.
  • Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights to safely light your way and avoid fire hazards.
  • Look before you step: after a potential storm, the ground and floors can be covered with debris, including broken glass and nails.
  • Check the walls, floors, doors, staircases, and windows for any signs of damage that might indicate the building could collapse. Inspect the foundation for cracks or damage, as these can make a building unsafe.
  • Lookout for potential fire hazards, such as broken or leaking gas lines, flooded electrical circuits, or submerged appliances.
  • If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, open a window and leave the building immediately. Turn off the gas at the main valve if possible, and contact the gas company from a neighbor’s home. Only a professional should turn the gas back on.
  • Check for electrical damage. If you see sparks, frayed wires, or smell burning insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you need to step through water to reach it, call an electrician for advice first. Electrical equipment should be inspected and dried before use.
  • Avoid entering moving and standing flood waters. Floodwater and mud may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.
  • If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. For damaged water pipes, contact the water company.
  • Until local authorities say your water supply is safe, boil water for at least one minute before consuming.
  • Watch out for loose plaster, drywall, or ceilings that might fall. (Take photos of the damage for insurance purposes).
  • Open windows and doors to help ventilate and dry out your home. Pump out flooded basements gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to prevent structural damage.
  • Service any damaged septic tanks or sewage systems as soon as possible to avoid potential health hazards.
  • Be aware of animals (Ex: snakes) that might have been displaced by the floodwaters. Use a stick to gently poke through debris to avoid surprises.
  • When in doubt, throw it out: Toss away food, including canned items, that have come in contact with floodwaters, was exposed to temperatures above 40 °F for more than two hours, or has an unusual odor, color, or texture.

What do know on power outages

If your power is out, follow these power outage safety tips:

  • Monitor the local media for emergency information and follow instructions from public safety officials
  • Call 9-1-1 to report downed power lines. Stay away from downed utility wires
  • Check current power outages (https://outagemap.eversource.com/external/default.html). Call Eversource to report power outages and get restoration information: Eversource (formerly NSTAR) 1-800-592-2000.
  • Make sure emergency generators or secondary heating systems are well ventilated. Do not plug the generator directly into household wiring. Avoid using generators and grills inside: their fumes contain carbon monoxide. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working.
  • If possible, use flashlights instead of candles. If you must use candles, place them in safe holders away from anything that could catch fire, and never leave a burning candle unattended.
  • Unplug sensitive electronics to avoid power surges when power is restored.
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Throw away any refrigerated food that was exposed to temperatures above 40 °F for more than two hours or has an unusual odor, color, or texture.
  • If a traffic light is out, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.