FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release 03-013
August 15, 2003

STATEMENT BY OEM COMMISSIONER JOHN T. ODERMATT URGING CONTINUED CONSERVATION OF ENERGY AND CAREFUL EXAMINATION OF REFRIGERATED FOOD AS POWER IS RESTORED TO NEW YORK

As of 9:02 p.m. Con Edison reported that all of its electrical networks in the City of New York have been restored. During this initial period of power restoration, New Yorkers are urged to conserve energy by shutting off unnecessary appliances. As a precautionary measure, the New York City Office of Emergency Management will remain activated to ensure the stability of the network.

As illness could occur following the consumption of food that is no longer fresh, New Yorkers should continue to use common sense when checking the contents of their refrigerators and deciding what should be retained and what should be discarded. Spoiled food should be placed in a sealed plastic bag or tightly covered container and put out with the trash on its regular collection day.

Commercial business establishments should contact their private carting company for extra pick-ups if the volume of food waste is substantial.

While many events are beyond our control, preparation for emergencies lessens the effects of the unexpected. OEM has produced a free guide in several languages called ‘Ready New York, A Household Preparedness Guide.’ It is a resource for what people should have on hand and ready to take with them in case of emergency – such as a loss of electrical power.

For your copy log onto OEM’s website at www.nyc.gov or call 311.

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PRESS CONTACT: Jarrod Bernstein/Michael Den Dekker (718) 422-4888