Alectra Utilities advises customers to be prepared for potential outages in wake of extreme winds

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 24, 2019 /CNW/ - A special weather statement has been issued for Alectra Utilities' service territory. Strong southwesterly wind gusts could reach 110 km/h Sunday afternoon into early evening. These potentially strong gusts could cause damage to powerlines. Areas with trees located near wires should take extra precaution as fallen branches that make contact with power lines could cause extended outages in affected areas.

Alectra's linesworkers are on standby and ready to assist in the event of a storm. (CNW Group/Alectra Utilities Corporation)

In the event of downed powerlines, stay at least 10 metres away (the length of a school bus), and call 911 immediately. To report outages, Alectra Utilities' customers should call:

• Brampton: 1-844-797-7920
• Guelph/Rockwood: 519-822-3014
• Hamilton: 905-522-6611
• Mississauga: 905-273-9050
• St. Catharines: 905-684-8111
• York Region/Simcoe County: 1-877-963-6900

Alectra's System Control Centre continuously monitors weather forecasts and storm models. Mitigation strategies are being made to prepare line crews and additional field and communications staff to respond in the event the situation evolves. If you experience a power outage, you can find frequent updates through our Twitter channel @AlectraNews or visiting the outage map on our website: www.alectrautilities.com.

Alectra Utilities reminds all customers of the importance of having an emergency kit in the event of a sustained power outage. It is recommended that emergency kits include: medicine, first aid supplies, flashlights, new batteries, a battery-operated radio, a manual can opener, canned food, bottled water, blankets, food for pets and important telephone numbers for family doctors, schools, daycare and insurance companies.

About Alectra's Utilities Corporation

Alectra Utilities Corporation serves approximately one million customers across a 2,200 square kilometre service territory and 17 communities including Alliston, Aurora, Barrie, Beeton, Brampton, Bradford, Guelph, Hamilton, Markham, Mississauga, Penetanguishene, Richmond Hill, Rockwood, St. Catharines, Thornton, Tottenham and Vaughan. It is part of the Alectra family of companies, which also includes Alectra Inc. and Alectra Energy Solutions Inc. 

SOURCE Alectra Utilities Corporation

For further information: Media Contact: Rachel Bertone, Media Spokesperson, [email protected] | 24/7 Media Line: 1.833.MEDIALN