Mayor Scott T. Johnson, together with the Department of Public Safety Chiefs Christopher Cole and Robert Williams and Department of Public Works, announced today that the City is prepared for the full potential effects of Hurricane Sandy. The City’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan provides the procedure for emergency response in times of natural disasters.

“We want all Saratogians to rest assured that every reasonable and available plan is in place to fully react, if needed, as Hurricane Sandy hits our area”, said Mayor Johnson.
“We have had full coordination with National Grid in its planned response to what appears to be predominately a wind risk with potential power outages for our region. As the storm hits, we will be in a better position to determine the impact and therefore the required steps to best protect the public”, said Mayor Johnson. In the event emergency shelters are needed, we will notify the public through further press releases and postings on the City website www.saratoga-springs.org and the Police Department website www.saratogapolice.org. Also, local television and radio stations will be alerted as matters progress. Overall, we stress that the storm must be taken very seriously and urge all non-essential travel be suspended and to use 911 only for serious emergency situations.

Here are useful phone numbers and information:

• Treat every downed wire as if it is a live electrical wire. Do not assume the wire may be
cable or phone. Do not approach, touch or move any downed wire. Call 911 immediately.
• Widespread power outages are expected. To report a power outage contact National Grid at 1-800-876-5222
• Stay clear of flooded areas. Do not drive through flooded streets as it is difficult to judge the force and depth of the water.
• Roadways may become blocked by downed branches and trees. Choose alternative routes. Contact 518-587-3550 ext 2910 to report downed trees in roadways. If there is no answer, you may contact the Police Department at 518-584-1800.
• During a power outage, beware of intersections normally controlled by a traffic light as power to the light may also be out. In these circumstances the intersection must be treated as a four-way stop. Use extreme caution when approaching intersections from
any direction.
• If you use a generator, be sure to use outdoors in a fully ventilated area.
• Avoid the use of candles and open flame for lighting purposes. Rely on battery operated lanterns, when possible. Never leave candles unattended.
• When possible, avoid the use of an elevator during peak storm periods.
• Stay tuned to television and/or radio for updated storm information and locations of shelters, should they become necessary.
• Use 911 ONLY for serious emergency situations. Use the Saratoga Springs Police Department number (518-584-1800) for all other non-emergency police or fire calls.

For additional information please follow the links provided:

National Grid: https://www1.nationalgridus.com/CorporateHub

NOAA: www.noaa.gov

American Red Cross: www.redcross.org

City of Saratoga Springs: www.saratoga-springs.org

Saratoga Springs Police Department: www.saratogapolice.org