Jeannette M. Mills, VP, Customer Operations & Chief Customer Officer
With Hurricane Sandy expected to hit the East Coast late this weekend, BGE has begun the process of pre-mobilizing its company and contract utility workers, as well as coordinating for likely out-of-state mutual assistance crews in preparation of possible impacts to our service territory. While its path remains uncertain, Hurricane Sandy is expected to be a very dangerous storm with high winds, heavy rain and possible flooding – all of which can cause whole trees, tree limbs and water to damage our electric equipment, resulting in outages for customers.
Just as BGE is preparing for the possible impact of Hurricane Sandy, we strongly advise customers to take the time now to
plan in advance to protect families and property, particularly given the strong possibility of extended power outages. Preparation includes monitoring the weather, having BGE’s outage number (1.877.778.2222) where you can report an outage or a downed wire, and having mobile devices charged in advance – along with battery backups. For customers who rely on electric medical equipment, it’s essential that you back up power sources and prepare for the option of an alternate location to wait out the storm in case of an extended outage. Those who have generators should ensure they operate safely.
In instances of long periods of heavy rain, BGE prepares for the very real potential of not only power outages related to overhead power lines, but also outages caused by flooding in cases where water enters gas and electric meters. In cases where flooding affects equipment beyond the meter, customers are responsible for all wiring, pipe, appliances, breaker boxes and any other gas or electric-related equipment or service inside the home or business. Customers are urged to consider the following flooding safety tips:
Proceed with care if you have experienced flooding in your basement and or other areas of your home
If there is power in your home, do not enter a room with standing water, particularly if the water covers electrical outlets or electrical cords that are plugged into outlets
Ensure the electrical system is shut off before entering a flooded room or basement
Do not attempt to shut off your electrical system if you have to stand in water or on a wet floor to do so
If you experienced flooding, do not turn on any lights or appliances without having a comprehensive inspection performed by a licensed electrician and also by a registered plumber with a gasfitter's license for gas appliances
Just as delivering safe and reliable electric and gas service is a vital responsibility for BGE, ensuring that our customers are informed is also extremely important. For updates on our preparation for the storm, visit our website, follow us on
Twitter and
Facebook, and stay tuned to the news.
