Assemblyman Andy Goodell (R,C,I-Chautauqua) today is reminding residents of important winter safety tips. With the recent bouts of cold weather across the state, many New Yorkers have been taking extra care to keep warm. That’s why National Grid and Goodell are encouraging residents to read and remember these suggestions.

“The winter weather, especially the extreme cold, can cause residents to take drastic steps to stay warm. Unfortunately, these efforts to avoid the cold can have as devastating, or even deadly, results as the cold itself,” said Goodell. “I strongly encourage all our residents to review National Grid’s safety tips and learn how they can best protect themselves against the cold weather.”

Some important winter safety tips include:

• Dress properly to help minimize potential cold stresses.
• Learn the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and seek medical attention if you begin to experience the symptoms.
• Never touch downed power lines, and always assume that fallen lines are live electric wires. If you see one, report it immediately to National Grid or your local emergency response organization.
• Driving conditions may be hazardous – if you have to be on the roads, be extra cautious around work sites, especially where visibility might be limited by blowing snow.

A complete copy of National Grid’s safety tips is attached.