AUGUSTA, Maine — As Maine braces itself for the impending snowstorm tomorrow and continues to experience dangerously low temperatures into the weekend, I urge you to do what you can to plan ahead. The National Weather Service has already issued a blizzard warning for areas along the coast and a winter storm warning for the rest of the state.
We have been hearing from a number folks who are frustrated with the current lag in oil delivery as they try to heat their homes. Keep in mind that oil deliveries may be operating several days behind schedule due to this past week of extreme temperatures and high demand. Remember, kerosene is also an option in the event of an emergency.
On Friday, the Governor signed a waiver to allow additional oil deliveries to meet the demand. This waiver expires on Friday.
I have put together a list of local and state resources to help keep your children and families safe and warm during this period of harsh winter weather. Please share this list widely with friends, families and neighbors. It is important that we all lookout for one another during these tough winter months.
Maine 211: https://211maine.org/
- Ways to get help:
- Dial “211” on your phone
- Text your zip code to 898-211
- Send an email to Info@211Maine.org
MEMA’s “Maine Prepares” site: http://www.maine.gov/mema/prepare/prep_winter.shtml
- Provides info on:
- Alternative Heat Source Safety for those using space heaters, wood stoves and other heat sources
- Carbon Monoxide Safety for those using gas-powered generators or other sources. Includes symptoms of CO poisoning, how to avoid it and how to report it
- Preventing or Thawing Frozen Water Pipes
- Improving Air Quality For Breathing While Heating With Wood
- Putting together a preparedness kit for your car
- And more
Maine Housing Authority’s Home Energy Assistance Program: http://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/energydetails/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program
- Call 1-877-544-3271
- Email LIHEAP@mainehousing.org
- Income eligibility guidelines: http://www.mainehousing.org/charts/DATAPovertyGuidelines
Department of Homeland Security page on preparing for and enduring winter storms: https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather
- Comprehensive lists for preparing your home, vehicle, etc.
Information on power outages:
- CMP:
- Report online: https://ecmp.cmpco.com/WebOutage/
- Call 1-800-696-1000
- View outage list: http://www.cmpco.com/outages/outageinformation.html
- Emera
- Report online: https://www.emeramaine.com/outages-and-restoration/outage-report-form/
- Call 207-973-2000 or 1-855-EMERA-11 (1-855-363-7211)
- View outage list: http://www.emeramaine.com/outages-and-restoration/current-outage-reports/
Finally, for localized service, please contact:
Aroostook County Action Plan
Call: (207) 834-5135
