City of New Britain Asks Residents to Exercise Caution During Storm

With a Nor’easter expected for the northeast, the City of New Britain says it, “is urging residents to use caution, limit unnecessary travel, and take steps to keep themselves and their families safe.”

“The safety of our residents and our first responders is our top priority,” said New Britain Mayor Bobby Sanchez. “We ask everyone to take the forecast seriously, use good judgment, stay off the roads when conditions are hazardous, and give our public safety and Public Works crews the space they need to do their jobs safely.”

The city says that it recommends residents to avoid travel and stay indoors, if possible, and to exercise caution if they are driving, added, “and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.”

The city especially offered these specific safety precautions:

-Stay away from downed power lines. Always assume a downed wire is live and dangerous. Do not touch the wire or anything that may be in contact with it, including trees, fences, vehicles, or standing water.

-Keep a safe distance from fallen trees and damaged utility equipment and report hazardous conditions to the appropriate authorities.

-Secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, trash cans, decorations, and other objects that could become airborne during high winds.

-Prepare for possible power outages by charging phones and other essential devices and having flashlights, batteries, medications, and other necessities readily available.

-Use generators safely. Generators should only be operated outdoors and well away from windows, doors, and vents. Never operate a generator inside a home, garage, basement, or other enclosed area.

-Avoid flooded areas. Never walk or drive through floodwaters, as water depth and road conditions can be difficult to determine.

-Check on neighbors, family members, seniors, and others who may need additional assistance, when it is safe to do so.

-Call 911 only for emergencies. For non-emergency public safety matters, residents may contact the New Britain Police Department’s routine/non-emergency line at 860-826-3000.

The City says it provide additional updates as conditions warrant, adding, “Residents should monitor official City communications and local weather alerts for updated information.”