FORWARDING: NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLACES NEW YORK CITY UNDER A TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER WEDNESDAY THROUGH THURSDAY

 

The New York City Emergency Management Department (NYCEM) today issued a Travel Advisory for Wednesday, April 3, to Thursday, April 4 for inclement weather forecasted for the city, including an additional 2 to 3 inches of rain expected between now and Thursday, becoming locally heavy at times, mainly Wednesday afternoon to Wednesday evening, causing minor flooding of poor drainage and low-lying areas. Flash flooding is not currently forecast, but localized areas of flash flooding cannot be ruled out. There is also expected to be minor coastal flooding and high winds. New Yorkers are urged to remain updated with real-time verified emergency weather alerts through Notify NYC (nyc.gov/notify) and to expect travel delays and disruptions.

The National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Warning for Queens South from 3AM to 7AM Wednesday, April 3 and Queens North and the Bronx from 4PM Wednesday, April 3 until 10AM Thursday, April 4 for inundation of 1.5-2.5ft above ground level. The NWS also issued a Coastal Flood Advisory for Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Staten Island from 2PM Wednesday, April 3 until to 7AM Thursday, April 4. A Coastal Flood Advisory has been issued for Queens South between 2-7:00 PM on Wednesday, April 3, for inundation of 1 foot above ground level and for 3-7 AM on Thursday, April 4 for inundation of 2 feet above ground level.

The National Weather Service has also issued a High Wind Watch citywide from 11:00 AM on Wednesday until 5:00 AM Thursday for 25-35 mph winds and gusts of up to 60 mph possible. New Yorkers are urged to exercise caution when walking, biking, or driving and secure any loose objects from their properties. NWS alerts, advisories, and warnings, and statements are subject to change. For the latest visit weather.gov/nyc. The MTA has prohibited empty tractor-trailers and tandem trailers on all MTA bridges beginning 10AM on Wednesday due to expected high winds.

“As New York City braces for inclement weather, with additional rainfall, minor coastal flooding, and high winds, I urge all New Yorkers to prioritize their safety and to stay ahead of the weather by staying updated through Notify NYC, our city's most reliable source for real-time, verified emergency alerts,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Expect travel delays and disruptions tomorrow, and if you need to travel, try to use public transportation and budget additional time to get to your destination. Our city's emergency teams are mobilized and ready to address any impacts this weather may bring. Let's all do our part stay informed and prepared.”

“NYC Emergency Management has activated the City's Flash Flood Emergency Plan and is closely coordinating with the National Weather Service and our partner agencies across city, state, and federal levels in response to the expected weather conditions, including rainfall, coastal flooding, and strong winds,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “New Yorkers can stay informed with Notify NYC. Now is the time to take a moment to check on neighbors, especially those who are most vulnerable, for any needs they may have now and throughout the week.”

NYCEM is collaborating with the National Weather Service and monitoring the latest forecasts. To ensure real-time awareness and a coordinated response, NYCEM is organizing specialized interagency briefings to keep essential stakeholders well-informed of emerging risks, and reinforcing its readiness for scaled-up emergency responses should conditions warrant. Critical assets and specialized units are on standby prepared for activation as conditions necessitate. Roads, parking lots, and properties in low-lying areas near the shoreline could potentially experience minor flooding. 

NYCEM recommends the following preparedness actions for New Yorkers:

• Communication and Information: Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts through various channels, including Notify NYC, available in 13 different languages, with a special sub-group dedicated to Basement Apartment Dwellers. Register at NYC.gov/NotifyNYC or dial 311. Keep a battery-powered radio ready for timely updates, particularly if power outages are expected.
• Gather Supplies: Every household member should have a Go Bag packed with essential items, such as bottled water, non-perishable food, and basic medical supplies.
• Tidal Awareness and Coastal Barriers: Monitor tide tables and storm surge forecasts. Know when high tides are expected in your vicinity and be prepared to adjust your plans. Where feasible, deploy sandbags or other deployables suitable for a residence to reduce the risk of tidal water intrusion.
• Watercraft and Boat Security: If you own boats or watercraft, secure or relocate them immediately. Fluctuating tides can not only carry them away but loose watercraft can cause additional damage.
• Storm Drains and Local Warnings: Regularly check and clear any nearby storm drains to help manage water runoff and lessen the chances of localized flooding. Pay attention to localized warnings, especially those pertaining to rip currents and high waves.
• Beach Closures and Coastal Roads: Remain updated on any beach closures, as flooding can swiftly make these areas hazardous. Beaches are closed to swimming. Plan alternative travel routes to avoid low-lying coastal roads that may be susceptible to flooding.
• Home Safety and Utility Measures: Ensure your home's sump pumps are operational and familiarize yourself with how to safely shut off utilities like gas, water, and electricity. If you reside in a basement or below-grade apartment, be particularly vigilant, as these areas are more susceptible to flooding. Follow City guidance for additional actions specific to below-grade dwellings. Subscribe to Notify NYC’s Basement Apartment Dweller subgroup for key alerts.
• Document & Insurance Review: Secure essential documents in waterproof containers and maintain digital backups. Review your insurance to ensure you have specialized flood coverage, as standard policies often don't cover flood and wind damage. Consider enrolling in the National Flood Insurance Program. Learn more at www.floodsmart.gov.
• Prepare for Outages: To gear up for potential power disruptions, keep your cell phones charged, stock up on supplies. If power outages are predicted, consider adjusting your refrigerator and freezer to colder settings to extend the shelf life of perishable items. Ensure that flashlights and battery-operated radios or TVs are functional, keeping extra batteries on hand. If you rely on Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and lose power, dial 911 for immediate assistance, and remember never to use generators indoors. Check on vulnerable individuals in your community, such as older adults and people with disabilities or health conditions, and assist them in their preparations.
• Pet Safety: Make provisions for your pets' safety, including the need to leave your home and to take your pet with you.
• Plan for Special Needs & Check on Your Neighbors: Make it a point to check on neighbors who are older adults or who may require special assistance. If you have a disability or specific access and functional needs, make sure your emergency plan accounts for how these factors could impact your ability to respond quickly and communicate effectively during a crisis. Seek assistance from your family or service providers as needed.
• Avoidance and Caution: Do not venture into flooded areas. These zones may be contaminated or electrically charged. Take preemptive action by assembling a Go Bag with essentials like food, water, and first-aid supplies.
• Documentation: When it's safe, contribute to our collective flood risk understanding by capturing and submitting photos via the MyCoast portal (https://mycoast.org/ny) or the MyCoast app. Don't forget to also file flood reports through 311.
• Real-Time Awareness: Stay updated on changing flood conditions by monitoring real-time flood depth via the FloodNet website (https://www.floodnet.nyc/).

NYCEM will continue to provide New Yorkers with the most current information and guidelines as conditions develop.

For more safety tips, visit NYC.gov/SevereWeather. Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels including Notify NYC, the City's free emergency notification system. Through Notify NYC, New Yorkers can receive phone calls, text messages, and/or emails alerts about traffic and transit disruptions and other emergencies. Sign up for Notify NYC to receive free emergency alerts and updates in your preferred language by visiting NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, calling 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115), following @NotifyNYC on Twitter, or getting the free Notify NYC mobile application for your Apple or Android device. 

Justice Department Secures Agreement with Security Services Company to Resolve Immigration-Related Discrimination Claims

 

The Justice Department announced today that it has secured a settlement agreement with Securitas Security Services USA Inc. (Securitas), a protective services company with locations throughout the United States. The agreement resolves the department’s determination that certain Securitas locations violated the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by discriminating against non-U.S. citizens when checking their permission to work in the United States.

“Employers cannot restrict the types of documents workers can use to prove their permission to work,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The department continues to ensure that all workers, regardless of citizenship, immigration status or national origin, are allowed to present valid documents of their choice to prove their permission to work.”

The Civil Rights Division’s Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) determined that from at least Feb. 3, 2020, to Dec. 20, 2021, Securitas’ East Bay area locations, located in the cities of Concord and Fremont, California, routinely required lawful permanent residents to present a specific immigration document when checking their permission to work. In addition, the department determined that, between Feb. 3, 2020, and June 23, 2022, the company made similar document demands of other non-citizens with permission to work.

Under the terms of the settlement, Securitas will pay $100,000 in civil penalties to the United States and establish a backpay fund of $75,000 to compensate victims of the company’s discriminatory practices, including those who were fired or lost work because they could not comply with the company’s discriminatory document demands. Securitas has also agreed to train its personnel on the INA’s requirements, review its employment policies and be subject to monitoring by the department.

Federal law allows all workers to choose which valid, legally acceptable documentation to present to prove their identity and permission to work, regardless of citizenship status, immigration status or national origin. The INA’s anti-discrimination provision prohibits employers from asking for specific or unnecessary documents because of a worker’s citizenship status, immigration status or national origin. Indeed, many non-U.S. citizens, including lawful permanent residents, are eligible for several of the same types of documents to prove their permission to work as U.S. citizens are (for example, a state ID or driver’s license and an unrestricted Social Security card). Employers must allow workers to present whatever acceptable documentation the workers choose and cannot reject valid documentation that reasonably appears to be genuine.

IER is responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination provision of the INA. The statute prohibits discrimination based on citizenship status and national origin in hiring, firing or recruitment or referral for a fee, unfair documentary practices and retaliation and intimidation. 

Find more information on how employers can avoid discrimination when verifying someone’s permission to work on IER’s website. Learn more about IER’s work and how to get assistance through this brief video. Applicants or employees who believe they were discriminated against based on their citizenship, immigration status or national origin in hiring, firing, recruitment or during the employment eligibility verification process (Form I-9 and E-Verify), or subjected to retaliation, may file a charge. The public can also call IER’s worker hotline at 1-800-255-7688 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); call IER’s employer hotline at 1-800-255-8155 (1-800-237-2515, TTY for hearing impaired); email IER@usdoj.gov; sign up for a live webinar or watch an on-demand presentation or visit IER’s English and Spanish websites. Subscribe for email updates  from IER.

New Rochelle Man Sentenced To More Than 19 Years In Prison For Assaulting An FBI Task Force Officer And Related Firearm Offenses

 

The Defendant, While Holding a Gun, Led Law Enforcement on a Brazen Chase Through Downtown Yonkers in Broad Daylight and Fired Five Rounds into a Crowded Downtown Area

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that DARREN SMITH was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Philip M. Halpern to 230 months in prison for assaulting a Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) Task Force Officer and related offenses.  SMITH was previously convicted after a jury trial on September 12, 2022, of assaulting a federal officer, discharging a firearm in relation to his assault of a federal officer, and unlawfully possessing a firearm. 

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “This Office stands shoulder to shoulder with our partners in law enforcement when they come under attack.  We will stop at nothing to ensure that those who seek to harm them face justice.” 

According to the Indictment, public court filings, evidence presented at trial, and statements made in court:

On September 25, 2020, after officers of the Yonkers Police Department (“YPD”) initiated a lawful stop of the car SMITH was driving, SMITH sped away and led law enforcement officers on a car chase and then foot pursuit through the crowded streets of downtown Yonkers, holding a loaded handgun and refusing multiple law enforcement orders to stop and put down the gun.  An FBI Task Force Officer assigned to the FBI’s Westchester-based Safe Streets Task Force was among the law enforcement who responded and pursued SMITH.  Eventually, the Task Force Officer and members of the YPD brought SMITH to the ground.  While they attempted to restrain SMITH, who still refused to let go of the gun, SMITH fired five shots into the crowded Getty Square area of Yonkers in close proximity to members of law enforcement and bystanders, including a woman pushing a stroller with a baby.  While firing his gun, SMITH attempted to turn the gun back towards members of law enforcement, including the Task Force Officer, who were on top of him and trying to restrain him.  A photograph of SMITH on foot running with his gun is shown below:

In addition to the prison term, SMITH, 27, of New Rochelle, New York, was sentenced to five years of supervised release.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI’s Westchester County Safe Streets Task Force and the Yonkers Police Department.  The FBI’s Westchester County Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of special agents and task force officers from the FBI; U.S. Probation; New York State Police; New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision; Westchester County District Attorney’s Office; Putnam County Sheriff’s Office; Rockland District Attorney’s Office; and the New York City, Westchester County, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, Greenburgh, White Plains, Peekskill, Ramapo, and Clarkstown Police Departments.

Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation Opens Investigation into Civilian Death in Queens

 

The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Win Rozario, who died on March 27, 2024 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Queens. 

At approximately 1:48 p.m. on March 27, NYPD officers responded to a 911 call at 103rd Street and 101st Avenue in Queens. Upon arrival, officers encountered Mr. Rozario who was allegedly holding a pair of scissors. Two officers fired their service weapons at Mr. Rozario. Mr. Rozario was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered a pair of scissors at the scene.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer, including a corrections officer, may have caused the death of a person by an act or omission. Under the law, the officer may be on-duty or off-duty, and the decedent may be armed or unarmed. Also, the decedent may or may not be in custody or incarcerated. If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident. 

These are preliminary facts and subject to change.  

Governor Hochul Urges New Yorkers to Prepare for Storm Expected to Impact Parts of State Tuesday Through Thursday Night

 

Areas in North Country, Capital Region, Central NY, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier and Upper Mid-Hudson to See Widespread 6-12 Inches of Snow Through Wednesday Night

Higher Elevations, Including Adirondacks and Catskills, Could See Up to Two Feet of Snow by Wednesday Night

Heavy, Wet Snow Could Cause Hazardous Travel and Power Outages, Especially During Wednesday and Thursday Commutes, As Well As Power Outages

2-3 Inches of Rain Expected Across New York City, Long Island and Lower Mid-Hudson Regions Could Cause Flooding in Low-Lying and Flood-Prone Areas

Wind Gusts Up To 50 MPH Statewide Could Cause Additional Power Outages and Potentially Moderate Coastal Flooding in New York City and Long Island

Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to prepare for a long duration storm system set to impact the state with heavy snow, rain and high wind gusts that could cause hazardous travel, power outages and flooding. For the North Country, Capital, Central, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier and upper Mid-Hudson regions, snow and sleet will begin Tuesday night and transition to snow overnight. By Wednesday night, many could see 6-12 inches of snow, and the highest elevations of the Adirondacks and Catskills could see up to two feet of snow. Lower elevations in the North Country, Capital and upper Mid-Hudson should expect to see a wintry mix and a plowable snow.

Travel will likely be hazardous, especially during the Wednesday and Thursday commutes, and areas receiving heavy, wet snow could see isolated power outages. For the New York City, Long Island and the lower Mid-Hudson regions, a widespread 2-3 inches of rain is expected to fall starting Tuesday night and continue through Thursday, which will likely result in flooding of low-lying and flood-prone areas. Across the state, wind gusts up to 50 mph are possible Wednesday and Thursday, which could cause additional, isolated power outages and potentially moderate coastal flooding in New York City and Long Island. Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to monitor the weather closely as the forecast may shift over the next couple of days and prepare for hazardous travel and other storm impacts.

“Despite early signs of spring, we are closely monitoring a storm system that is expected to bring heavy snow, rain and gale force winds to parts of our state,” Governor Hochul said. “It is critical that New Yorkers monitor their local forecasts and take proper precautions as the weather unfolds. I have directed state agencies to make the necessary preparations and to engage with local partners as we prepare for the conditions to come.”

Winter Storm Watches are in effect for multiple locations in the North Country, Capital Region, Mohawk Valley, Central New York and the Southern Tier through Thursday night. New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert at https://alert.ny.gov, a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer. For a complete listing of weather alerts and forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website at https://alerts.weather.gov.

Agency Activities

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

The Division’s Office of Emergency Management is in contact with local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. State stockpiles are staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed.

New York State Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation is monitoring weather conditions and prepared to respond with more than 3,750 supervisors and operators. All field staff are available to fully engage and respond. Staff can be configured into any type of response crews that are needed, including flood response, chipper, load and haul, sewer jet, cut and toss, traffic signal, etc. Crews are checking and clearing drainage structures to make sure they are free of debris and clogs. All residencies in impacted locations will remain staffed for 24/7 operations with operators, supervisors and mechanics throughout the duration of the event and priority cleanup operations.

Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

• 1,602 large plow trucks
• 154 medium duty plows
• 52 tow plows
• 35 snow blowers
• 338 large loaders
• 83 tracked and wheeled excavators
• 82 chippers
• 20 graders
• 13 vacuum trucks with sewer jets
• 13 tree crew bucket trucks

For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit www.511ny.org, New York State's official traffic and travel information source.

Thruway Authority

Thruway Authority staff is monitoring the forecast and ready to respond to any weather-related issues with 701 plow operators and supervisors statewide. Statewide equipment numbers and resources are listed below:

• 357 large and medium duty plow trucks
• 11 tow plows
• 66 loaders
• More than 111,000 tons of salt on hand

Variable Message Signs and social media are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway. The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras, and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails and follow @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

Department of Public Service

Utility companies regulated by the Department of Public Service have approximately 5,500 workers available statewide to engage in repair and restoration efforts for the forecasted winter weather system over the next few days. DPS staff will track utilities' work throughout the event and ensure utility companies shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact. If your service is interrupted, visit the DPS Utility Service Interruptions website for tips.

New York State Police

State Police is monitoring weather conditions and will deploy additional Troopers to impacted areas as needed. All State Police four-wheel drive and specialized vehicles, including snowmobiles, airboats, and utility terrain vehicles are staged, and necessary equipment is ready for immediate response as needed. All emergency power and communications equipment have been tested and are functioning appropriately.

New York State Department of Environmental Conversation

DEC Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and weather forecasts. DEC is coordinating resource deployment with agency partners and moving all available assets to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to heavy snow.

In addition, DEC reminds outdoor enthusiasts and backcountry users to be mindful of conditions when hiking and to use caution when venturing onto ice. Always check ice thickness before traveling across it. A minimum of three to four inches of solid ice is the general rule for safety. Winter hiking and skiing safety and preparedness are extremely important no matter your physical ability or destination. Properly preparing for winter conditions is essential for a more enjoyable and safer experience. During and immediately following periods of heavy snowfall, avoid open, exposed areas like bare summits and use extreme caution when traveling on or near open slopes.

DEC reminds those responsible for the removal and disposal of snow to follow best management practices to help prevent flooding and reduce the potential for pollutants like salt, sand, oils, trash, and other debris in snow from affecting water quality. Disposal of snow in local creeks and streams can create ice dams which may cause flooding in nearby areas. Public and private snow removal operators should be aware of these safety issues during and after winter storms. Additional information is available online here.

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Response equipment is being fueled, tested, and prepared for storm response use. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Safety Tips

Winter Weather

• Service snow removal equipment. Use rock salt to melt ice on walkways, and sand to generate traction.
• Winterize your home and have heating sources inspected annually.
• If you use heating oil, maintain an adequate supply.
• Have safe, emergency heating equipment available and use according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Install and check smoke alarms.
• Protect water pipes from freezing.

Traveling in Winter Weather

Some of the most important tips for safe driving include:

• Do not drive unless necessary.
• If you must travel, make sure your car is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
• If you have a cell phone or other communications device such as a two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
• The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.
• It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time.
• Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions. Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted. Never attempt to pass a snowplow while it’s operating.

Power Outages

• If you use medication that requires refrigeration, most can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem – check with your physician or pharmacist.
• If you have space in your refrigerator or freezer, consider filling plastic containers with water, leaving an inch of space inside each one – this will help keep food cold if the power goes out.
• Plan to have an alternative cooking source, such as a camp stove or outdoor grill. Follow appropriate safety rules for its use outside the residence.
• Consider buying a generator and follow the rules for using it outside the residence. Before installing a generator, be sure to properly disconnect from your utility electrical service. If possible, have your generator installed by a qualified electrician.
• Have extra blankets, coats, hats, and gloves on hand to keep warm.
• If you have a computer, back up files and operating systems regularly. Turn off all computers, monitors, and other devices when they are not being used.
• If you have an electric garage door opener, locate the manual release level, and learn how to operate.
• If you have a telephone instrument or system that requires electricity to work, plan for alternate communication such as a standard tele-phone handset, cellular telephone, or radio.

What to Do If the Power Goes Out

• Turn off or disconnect major appliances and other equipment, e.g., computers, in case of a momentary power surge that can damage these devices. Keep one light turned on so you know when power returns. Consider using surge protectors wherever you use electronic equipment.
• Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage and listen to local broadcasts for official information. Check with your utility to determine area repair schedules.
• Check to see if neighbors and those with access or functional needs have power.
• Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire.
• Keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed - most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately four (4) hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat - they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
• Stay warm by dressing in layers and minimizing time spent outdoors. Be aware of cold stress symptoms (i.e., hypothermia) and seek proper medical attention if symptoms appear.
• Close off rooms you do not need.

To Report an Electric Outage, Call:

• Central Hudson: 800-527-2714
• Con Edison: 800-752-6633
• National Grid: 800-867-5222
• NYSEG: 800-572-1131
• O&R: 877-434-4100
• PSEG-LI: 800-490-0075
• RG&E: 800-743-1701

Heating Safety

• Use only safe sources of alternative heat such as a fireplace, small well-vented wood or coal stove or portable space heaters.
• When using alternative heat sources such as a fireplace, woodstove, etc. always make sure you have proper ventilation. Always follow manufacturer's instructions.
• Keep curtains, towels, and potholders away from hot surfaces.
• Have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors and make sure they work.
• If you use kerosene heaters to supplement your regular heating fuel, or as an emergency source of heat, follow these safety tips:
• Follow the manufacturers' instructions.
• Use only the correct fuel for your unit.
• Refuel outdoors only and only when the unit is cool.
• Keep the heater at least three feet away from furniture and other flammable objects.
• When using the heater, use fire safeguards and ventilate properly.

For more winter safety tips, visit dhses.ny.gov/safety. For all non-emergency service needs in New York State before, during or after a storm, call 211 or visit 211nys.org.

About the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) provides leadership, coordination, and support to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate disasters and other emergencies. For more information, follow @NYSDHSES on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) or visit dhses.ny.gov.