Additional Info. from Putnam County

Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell reminds residents that Putnam County remains under a State of Emergency. She continues to meet with New York State Electric and Gas, Central Hudson, town supervisors and mayors and is in phone contact with New York State officials.

As Putnam County officials try to ensure the safety of all Putnam County residents, it is imperative for motorists to stay off the roadways. This recommendation is issued so that road crews can clear trees, poles and wires from the roadways with minimal risk to workers and citizens. There are over 100 county roads currently closed and they need to be vacant for work to be performed expeditiously.

Currently, county resources are being directed at clearing roads that have the most impact for our residents.  We are clearing roads so that citizens may have access to Putnam Hospital Center, Fire Departments and Ambulances as quickly and safely as possible.

With the knowledge of such widespread power outages, trees and wires down in the roads, it is very important that residents do not attempt to clear any roadway as it can present hidden dangers. The safest and fastest way to have the roads cleared is to allow Utility and County workers to do their jobs according to protocol.

Putnam County Officials appreciate the residents willingness to help but request your support in responding to all recommendations. Your health and safety is of utmost concern to County Executive MaryEllen Odell and all Putnam County officials ...

The following measures are also advised.  

• Do not run any generator indoors and have proper ventilation.           
• Do not heat your home with a stove or oven.  
• Use caution when using candles.  
• Call 9-1-1 for emergencies only.  
• If possible, please check on family members and neighbors to make sure that they are safe.  

Contractors

Putnam County residents are asked to hire ONLY Licensed and Registered Contractors.  Putnam County provides identification cards and vehicle stickers to all of it's Licensed Contractors.  Please do not hesitate to ask to see this documentation.

When contracting for work to be done, make sure to:

• get a written estimate,
• get a signed contract to include:
• a detailed description of work to be performed,
• a listing of all work and all materials included in the job,
• the license/registration number of the contractor,
• the start date and the completion date,
• and the price to be paid.

Do not pre-pay for the work to be performed; it is prudent to provide a reasonable down-payment to start.