National Grid has 760 crews on the ground or on the way to Massachusetts in the wake of heavy storm damage, including two tornados, that devastated western parts of the state Wednesday.

As of noon on Thursday, about 17,000 of the 42,000 who were without power had been restored, according to the company, and more information about restoration times are expected this afternoon once the company’s surveys are completed.

The company’s president, Marcy Reed, toured the hardest hit areas on Thursday and met with officials to survey the damage to the electrical system.

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by these devastating storms, especially the families of the four people who lost their lives yesterday,” she said. “We want our customers to know that we are doing absolutely everything we can to get power back on as quickly and safely as possible so that they can begin to rebuild their homes, businesses and communities.”

The hardest hit towns that National Grid covers include Brimfield, East Longmeadow, Hampden, Holland, Monson, Sturbridge, Wales and Wilbraham, according to the company.

Crews will be working 24-hours a day to restore power but have to access some lines in very remote areas and repair severe damage in some places, according to the company.

In the meantime, the company issued the following safety measures for residents.

? Never touch downed power lines, and always assume that any fallen lines are live electric wires. If you see one, report it immediately to National Grid or your local emergency response organization.

? If you use a generator, be sure to only operate it outdoors. Before operating generators, be sure to disconnect from National Grid’s system by shutting off the main breaker located in the electric service panel. Failure to do this could jeopardize the safety of crews working to restore power.

? Continue to monitor your battery-powered radio or television for emergency information Be careful when entering any structure that has been damaged.

? Wear sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves, and gloves when handling or walking on or near debris

? Be aware of hazards from exposed nails and broken glass

? Use battery-powered lanterns, if possible, rather than candles to light homes without electrical power. If you use candles, make sure they are in safe holders away from curtains, paper, wood, or other flammable items. Never leave a candle burning when you are out of the room.

– Joseph G. Cote