High wind is expected to continue throughout the day and may cause new outages however
Company expects the vast majority of customers to be restored by late this evening

BALTIMORE (March 13, 2014) — Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE) has restored service to more than 26,000 customers affected by Wednesday evening and Thursday’s morning’s rain and wind storm. The storm brought with it sustained wind of up to 30 miles per hour and wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour throughout the night. High wind conditions combined with saturated ground brought trees and tree limbs down onto power lines and other electric delivery equipment causing outages. BGE increased its number of crews working overnight to respond to weather-related outages as quickly and as safely as possible. As high wind conditions continue throughout the day Thursday, new outages are possible however; the company expects the vast majority of customer to be restored by late this evening. BGE reminds to customers to stay away from downed power lines and to report both outage and downed wires by calling 1.877.778.2222. Customers may also report their outage via a mobile phone or device at bge.com.

―BGE has made solid progress restoring electric service to customers as safely and as quickly as possible, even during times of extremely high wind,‖ said Carol Dodson, vice president and chief customer officer for BGE. ―In areas sustaining significant tree-related damage, BGE crews must first assess the damage and remove the tree debris before actual repairs to electric delivery equipment can be made. Due to the labor and time intensive nature of this type of work, restoration durations may be extended. In addition, work involving bucket trucks may be delayed during periods of high sustained wind of 30 miles per hour or more. We thank our customers for their patience and for reporting downed wires and outages to BGE.

An enhanced power outage map is also available through the mobile and full websites, and provides the general location and status of current electric power outages in BGE’s service area. Customers can view affected area(s), the number of customers affected by an outage, estimated time of restoration if available, and the status of the field crew assigned to repair the issue.

Customers with special needs, such as those who may be elderly, disabled or dependent on electricity for medical equipment, should have alternate arrangements in place should they experience an extended power outage.

Customers using a generator or space heater should follow manufacturer instructions and be sure to locate generators in well-ventilated areas. Any customers using generators or portable heaters should carefully follow all safety instructions from the manufacturer. Improper use of this equipment or other appliances can result in potential deadly carbon monoxide poisoning, fire or other dangerous conditions.

BGE encourages its customers and employees to proactively prepare for severe weather and the possibility of power outages and to take steps to ensure the safety of their families and property during service interruptions by taking the following steps:

• Staying informed – Be aware of changing weather conditions and plan ahead. Have a battery-powered radio with a weather band so you can hear emergency information when the power is out. 
• Making a plan – Discuss and document an emergency plan with those in your care. Develop an emergency plan that includes alternative arrangements should the need arise to leave your home. Make provisions for special needs of any family member such as the elderly, disabled, medically affected or infants (Customers with Special Needs). If you are dependent on electric-powered medical equipment, you are encouraged to seek alternate arrangements in the event that your electric service is interrupted. 
• Making a list of emergency phone numbers (including 877.778.2222 to report an outage or a downed wire to BGE) and keep a personal telephone book and one corded phone or a cell phone on hand. Customers are also able to report power outages from mobile phones and devices through the mobile website at bge.com. 
• Maintaining an emergency supply kit – Keep enough emergency supplies on hand for you and those in your care. Remember supplies for children, those with special needs and pets. Keep the following items readily available:
• Flashlights – not candles
• Fresh batteries
• Battery-operated clock radio
• Corded telephone
• Fully charged cell phone
• Non-perishable foods
• Water – one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation
• First aid kit
• Local maps
• Blankets