MELVILLE / BROOKLYN, N.Y. – With temperatures expected in the single digits this weekend, National Grid is prepared to provide its 1.9 million customers in New York City and Long Island with the energy needed to keep families warm and businesses running. 

“We’re monitoring the weather reports and have implemented our extreme weather plan to ensure to keep our customers warm and safe during these extremely cold temperatures.  We encourage our customers to be aware of precautions to take during frigid temperatures,” said Chris Connolly, Vice President, Gas Network Operations, National Grid.  “We have extra staffing and resources in place to manage the system safely and reliably for our customers during this arctic blast.”

To ensure continued safe and reliable operations of the energy networks the company has implemented its extreme weather plan including:

• Calling on commercial and industrial customers participating in the company’s Non- Firm Demand Response Program to use an alternate fuel in order to ensure adequate supplies to heat customers’ homes during the fierce cold temperatures expected for the weekend.  
• Calling on customers participating in the company’s Gas Demand Response Firm Program to reduce their overall energy usage during demand times.
• Preparing to utilize liquefied natural gas and compressed natural gas for additional supply if needed to serve customers.
• Coordinating with Long Island and New York City emergency management officials.

Cold Weather Safety

• Be aware of cold weather safety precautions, including knowing the signs of hypothermia, to help keep you and your family warm and safe.
• When using alternate heating sources, such as a fireplace, wood stove or space heater, take the necessary safety precautions. Keep a fire extinguisher handy and ensure everyone knows how to use it. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to remain safe.
• In the event of a natural gas emergency or if you smell gas call 911 or National Grid’s 24-hour emergency numbers:  for Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island at 718-643-4050; for Long Island and the Rockaway Peninsula at 1-800-490-0045.
• Click here for additional natural gas safety tips. 

Winter Energy and Money Saving Tips

While National Grid has sufficient natural gas supplies for this winter, conserving energy can lower bills while enhancing comfort.

• Keep doors and windows closed while running your heating system to reduce air loss.
• Clear areas in front of vents from furniture; blocked vents require up to 25 percent more energy to distribute air.
• Take advantage of the sun:  raise shades and blinds to let the sun warm your home.
• Adjust your thermostat to a level that keeps you warm and safe. 
• Change the direction of your ceiling fan to spin clockwise at the lowest setting. This will pull cool air towards the ceiling and redistribute the warm air that accumulates near the ceiling.
• Take advantage of programs that can help you pay and manage your winter energy bills through National Grid’s Winter Customer Savings Initiative.

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