RG&E Offers Tips to Customers in Flood Prone Areas

ROCHESTER, NEW YORK — May 24, 2017 — RG&E, a subsidiary of AVANGRID Inc. (NYSE: AGR), is closely monitoring the increasing water levels along Lake Ontario. RG&E crews have been coordinating with emergency first responders to discuss appropriate steps involving potential shut offs due to high water levels and erosion. As of 4 pm, the company has conducted 13 electric and natural gas shut offs at the request of emergency first responders or residents.

RG&E encourages property owners in flood prone areas, and those who experience persistent basement flooding to consider how their electricity and natural gas services could be affected by the increasing water levels. By taking appropriate actions, residents affected by flooding can ensure their safety and lessen potential property damage.

Flooding Preparation and Safety Tips

  • If flooding of a home or business has already occurred or is about to occur, customers should contact their utility companies to have electricity and natural gas service turned off. RG&E customers should call 800.743.1701 for electric emergencies, 800.743.1702 for gas emergencies or 911. Customers should call 800.743.2110; for customer service inquiries.
  • Customers should never attempt to turn off electricity and natural gas service.
  • Stay out of flooded basements. Energized wiring or outlets below the water line may pose a hazard; natural gas service in a flooded basement may also pose a danger.
  • To have RG&E electricity service restored once flood waters have receded: Customers should contact an electrician to make sure that it is safe to have electricity service turned on before contacting their utility.
  • If the main fuse box or circuit breaker box has been under water, it must be inspected by a Certified Electrical Inspector before service can be restored.
  • Someone must be present for service to be turned on, the basement must be free of water and the electrical panel must be clean and free of debris.
  • Customers and contractors should never attempt to turn on electricity service.
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