Falling trees and broken limbs can knock down power lines and often resultin extensive damage to overhead power systems.

Con Edison is urging any customer who loses power to notify the company bycalling1-800-75-CONED. Customers with Internet access can also report outagesonline by going to www.conEd.com. They can also check on estimated servicerestoration times. Customers should not assume the company is aware thatthey are without service.

Con Edison will have additional staff available to assess any damage, inaddition to tree-trimming crews, skilled mechanics expert at making repairsto overhead equipment, and safety personnel. Staff will work around theclock to ensure that all customers receive safe and reliable service.

The company will be in contact the New York City Office of EmergencyManagement and Westchester County Department of Emergency Services to keepthem up to date on all efforts.

Here are some tips to prepare for a storm:

-- Have a lights-out kit that is well stocked and handy, with abattery-operated radio or TV, several flashlights and a supply of freshbatteries.

-- In the event of a power outage, customers should protect their majorappliances and any electronically-sensitive equipment, such ascomputers, by switching them to the "off" position.

-- Stay indoors. If you must go outside, stay away from downed anddangling lines. Treat all downed lines as if they are live anddangerous. Never attempt to move or touch them with any object. Bemindful that downed wires can be hidden from view by tree limbs, leavesor water.

-- Report all downed wires to Con Edison and your local policedepartment immediately. If a power line falls on your car while you'rein it, stay inside the vehicle and wait for emergency personnel.

-- If your power goes out, turn off all lights and appliances toprevent overloaded circuits when power is restored. Leave at least onelight switch in the on position to alert you when power has beenrestored.

For more storm tips and preparation, and estimated restoration times, go tothe company's Storm Central site at www.ConEd.com