CMP Echoes Calls for Caution Ahead of Extreme Cold
Company adding additional coverage at service centers
AUGUSTA, ME — February 2, 2023 — Central Maine Power is echoing calls from state leaders and is reminding customers to take measures to stay safe and warm as extreme cold weather moves into Maine beginning Thursday, February 2 through Sunday, February 5. Temperatures could remain below zero for much of Friday and Saturday and be especially dangerous during the overnight hours.
“In anticipation of sub-zero temperatures, CMP is taking the extra precaution of adding additional coverage at CMP service centers from Friday through Sunday,” said CMP Spokesperson Jon Breed. “We’re preparing for the weather, and we advise our customers to as well. These cold temperatures can quickly become dangerous, and we want customers to be aware of the proper safety precautions to take.”
Per the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), warming and charging centers operated by local municipalities could open in communities across Maine. Visit MEMA's website to find a location near you. You may also dial 2-1-1 or visit their website for a list of locations. Some additional safety tips include:
Home Generators
Any generator that plugs into a home’s electrical system must be installed by a certified electrician. Always follow safety guidelines when operating a generator. Generators should be placed outdoors and away from doors and windows to prevent exposure to carbon monoxide.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be located on every level of a home, outside all sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least twice a year.
Appliances
Never use a stove or oven to stay warm. Only space heaters intended for indoor use should be operated indoors or in enclosed spaces, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Space Heaters
Use only space heaters that have been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and never use a device designed for outdoor use indoors. Place the space heater on a level surface away from foot traffic, at least three feet from combustible materials. Inspect the cord for fraying, and after plugging it in, periodically feel the cord near the outlet to make sure the plastic is not getting hot. Do not run the space heater cord under a rug or carpeting, and never use an extension cord for a space heater. Keep children and pets away, and turn off the space heater when leaving the area.
More space heater safety information can be found on the U.S. Department of Energy website, at https://energy.gov/energysaver/portable-heaters.
Hot Water and Plumbing
Water pipes that are exposed to cold temperatures may freeze and burst. Don’t ignore drips or odd noises from your heating system. Wrap exposed pipes in the basement with pipe insulation to help them retain heat and avoid freezing.
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About CMP: Central Maine Power Company (CMP), a subsidiary of AVANGRID, Inc., is Maine’s largest electricity transmission and distribution utility. Established in 1899 and based in Augusta, Maine, CMP serves approximately 646,000 customers across 346 communities in central and southern Maine. It operates approximately 23,500 miles of distribution lines and 2,900 miles of transmission lines. Over the last decade, the company has invested approximately $3.5 billion in Maine system infrastructure.
About AVANGRID: AVANGRID, Inc. (NYSE: AGR) aspires to be the leading sustainable energy company in the United States. Headquartered in Orange, CT with approximately $40 billion in assets and operations in 24 U.S. states, AVANGRID has two primary lines of business: Avangrid Networks and Avangrid Renewables. Avangrid Networks owns and operates eight electric and natural gas utilities, serving more than 3.3 million customers in New York and New England. Avangrid Renewables owns and operates a portfolio of renewable energy generation facilities across the United States. AVANGRID employs more than 7,000 people and has been recognized by JUST Capital in 2021, 2022 and 2023 as one of the JUST 100 companies – a ranking of America’s best corporate citizens. In 2023, AVANGRID ranked first within the utility sector for its commitment to the environment. The company supports the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals and was named among the World’s Most Ethical Companies in 2022 for the fourth consecutive year by the Ethisphere Institute. AVANGRID is a member of the group of companies controlled by Iberdrola, S.A. For more information, visit avangrid.com.
Media Contact:
Jon Breed
Jonathan.Breed@avangrid.com
207.458.3510