State Fire Officials Warn of Electrocution Risk from “Backfeeding” of Power Lines
Trenton, NJ – New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Commissioner Richard E. Constable, III today issued a warning to residents regarding the potential dangers of portable generators and “backfeeding” during power outages. An increase in the use of generators is expected with the arrival of Hurricane Sandy in the coming days, raising the importance of educating New Jerseyans on their proper and safe use.
Portable generators, widely used when power lines are down, can prove fatal to homeowners, utility workers and even your neighbors when used improperly. A generator connected to a home’s wiring or plugged into a regular household outlet can cause ‘backfeeding’ along power lines and electrocute anyone who comes in contact with them – even if the line seems dead.
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Posted: October 26th, 2012 | Author: admin | Filed under: Chris Christie, Hurricane Sandy, Press Release | Tags: Backfeeding, DCA, Department of Community Affairs, Electrocution Risk, Frankenstorm, Generator Safety, Generator Safety Alert, Hurricane Sandy, Richard Constable | 7 Comments »
Urges Residents to Take Commonsense Precautions as Movement
of Sandy Continues to be Tracked
Trenton, NJ – Governor Chris Christie today directed cabinet officials to mobilize preparations for a coordinated response to the potential October storm that is trending towards an impact on the East Coast. The Governor also urged New Jersey residents to take the time now – ahead of the storm – to activate and supply their family preparedness plans and to closely monitor the track of Hurricane Sandy.
“While Sandy’s exact track is still uncertain, New Jersey has the potential to experience a major impact from high winds, heavy rain, flooding and power outages,” said Governor Christie. “That’s why it’s important from the State level on down to prepare in advance of this serious storm. The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management’s Hurricane Survival Guide is available to residents online with important information about emergency preparedness. Now, ahead of any potential impact of Sandy, is the time for families to ensure they are prepared and are tuned in for the latest path of the storm for our coast. I encourage all of our families to stay informed, get ready, and reach out to those you know who may be isolated, or in need of extra assistance during adverse conditions.”
The State Emergency Operations Center was activated at 8 a.m. today to coordinate preparations related to the storm.
New Jersey residents can maintain situation awareness in the following ways:
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Posted: October 26th, 2012 | Author: admin | Filed under: Chris Christie, Hurricane Sandy, Press Release | Tags: Frankenstorm, Governor Christie, Hurricane Sandy | Comments Off on Governor Christie Directs Cabinet to Make All Necessary Preparations for Coordinated Response to Hurricane Sandy