Worries about possible power outages

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The October snowstorm last year led to extended power outages all across western Massachusetts. People were left in the dark for days and even weeks.

Although a repeat of that is not expected from Sandy, power outages could still be a possibility with this storm.
If things look like they might get bad, Western Mass Electric has a plan.

“We'll start to reach out and talk to other companies for mutual assistance. The utility industry is very good about sharing resources to where the damage is going to be and get people in place so we can respond quickly,” said Peter Clarke President of Western Mass. Electric Company

The threat for power outages is on the minds of a lot of people.

“I'm concerned about power outages. The best thing is to be prepared. The best thing is to have flashlights enough batteries handy, make sure you have enough food in the house, gas in the car in case the ATM's don't work make sure you have money,” said Michael Gottschalk from New York City.

And with the threat of power outages you may want to think about getting one of these.

“I used to be very concerned about power outages. I made one of the most wonderful purchases about 4 years ago of a generator. It completely takes care of my house when one of these things happens so I am blessed with that,” said Name Bill Hughes of Montgomery.

 At F.C. Taplin in West Springfield generators are in high demand.

“We have a truck on the way. It should be here tomorrow night and people are calling ahead to reserve them and put down payments on them so we can have them ready for them,” said Marty Jagodowski the owner of F.C. Taplin.

If you do get a generator make sure you keep it at least 10 feet away from your home with the exhaust aimed away from the house.