Milford Fire Department Post Storm Update

As we move into the second day after Tropical Storm Irene struck the shoreline area, the City of Milford is pulling together and working as a community to get back to “normal” as quickly and as safely as possible.

As of 3pm today, the United Illuminating Liaison that still continues to operate out of the Milford Fire Department Headquarters reports that 43% of Milford is still without power. Crews from the Milford Fire Department have assisted the Utility Companies by doing door to door surveys of the structures in the affected areas to determine the damage to the electrical services in the buildings. This will now allow the Utility Companies to remove certain electrical meters from houses so they can restore the electricity to the undamaged buildings. Without this information, power cannot be turned on for fear of starting widespread electrical fires.

The United Illuminating Company has researched their records and determined individuals in their database that have filled paperwork requesting special medical needs in the event of an extended power outage. The City of Milford has asked the UI to let them know that if they should need medical assistance, to please call the City of Milford Emergency Operations Center at (203) 874-6782. FOR A TRUE MEDICAL EMERGENCY DIAL 911.

Fire Department personnel still are working day and night to assist homeowners in removing water from their houses and basements with portable pumps. Residents needing assistance with pump outs should call the Milford Fire Department Storm information center at (203) 874-6782.

Emergency calls still continue to come in at an above average amount. Many of these calls are storm related and continue to tax the first responders. 

As we move into another day with much of the City still without power we want to urge residents to be ever vigilant in making sure the safety of the citizens are maintained. During the evening hours we suggest that people without power refrain from using candles for illumination purposes. On the average there are 166 civilian deaths resulting from house fires started by unattended candles. We recommend that you use flashlights or portable lanterns to provide light. If candles must be used, please keep them 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Remember, your windows may be open and your curtains could come dangerously close to the candles.

Many residents without power have resorted to the use of portable generators to provide some of their electricity. Portable generators can be hazardous if used improperly. The two biggest risks are carbon monoxide poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust and electrocution from connecting the generator to the home electrical wiring system. Always observe the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation and run your generator outdoors in a well, ventilated area. Keep combustibles away from generators and remember before refueling, turn the engine off and let cool for at least 2 minutes. Also all combustible and flammable liquids should be stored outside.

For those of you using propane or charcoal grills to conduct your cooking, please use the safely and set them up in outside and away from the building. At no time, should these grills be set up inside an enclosed area.

There are still numerous downed trees that may be inter- twinned with electrical wires. If you see downed power lines, stay away and contact 911. Do not touch fallen or low-hanging wires of any kind under any circumstances. Also do not touch any trees or objects in contact with power lines.

Any non-emergency requests for service or questions regarding post storm operations can be directed to the Storm Center telephone number at (203) 874-6782.