As Hurricane Sandy moves closer to making landfall in New Jersey this weekend, First Energy Corp. Utilities and Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) are mobilizing employees and resources to help aid the restoration process should the storm impact customer's utility service.  Preparation activities include:

+ Preparing to mobilize employees and resources to assist in storm activities.
+ Securing additional tree crews.
+ Arranging for the activation of staging areas for crews and equipment.
+ Communicating with emergency management officials, state officials and regulators.

Reporting an Outage
If your power goes out, contact your local electric utility to report an outage.  The best way to do this for JCP&L (First Energy's affiliate serving Mendham Township) is to call the automated reporting line at 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877).  Customers also may call 1-800-545-7738 to report an outage.  Website improvements provide real-time updates on power outages and and JCP&L is recommending  all customers sign up for their twitter page.  go to: https://www.firstenergycorp.com/content/customer/jersey_central_power_light.html 

To view a press release sent 10/26/12 by First Energy click here.

 PSE&G customers should contact PSE&G's automated customer service line at 1-800-436-PSEG.  PSE&G customers with a handheld device can also report power outages and view the status of their outage repair by logging in to My Account at pseg.com.  PSE&G will activate its twitter page if outages are widespread to keep the public informed.  Sign up as a follower at http://twitter.com/psegoutageinfo to monitor restoration progress.  Report downed wires immediately to your electric company or local police or fire department.  Never go near a downed power line, even if you think it is no longer carrying electricity.

Do not try to remove trees or tree limbs from power lines.  Wait for utility crews to arrive.

Safety Tips During Outages

+  Keep flashlights with fresh batteries in your home.  Avoid using candles to light your home, especially
     around childrens and pets.
+  Never use a gas stove or lantern that is intended for outdoor use inside your home.
+  Make sure you have fresh batteries in a portable radio so you can stay tuned to your local radio
    station for updates on progress to restore power.
+  Avoid opening the refrigerator or freezer.  A full freezer can keep food frozen for up to three days if it is
    kept closed.
+  Disconnect major appliances until after the power has been restored.  By disconnecting you can avoid
    damage that could occur during efforts to restore service.  Keep one light turned on so you will know
    when the power is back on.

More Tips On How To Prepare For A Storm

Prepare for Power Outages: Check your property for trees and limbs which could fall and damage your home or fall on utility lines leading to your home and have them removed
Stock Emergency supplies:
Batteries for flashlights and a portable radio.
Bottled water, canned food, juice and a manual can opener
Candles and a safe holder. Matches or a butane barbecue lighter
Cash or traveler’s checks (Debit cards and the ATM may be useless in a major power outage)
Cellphones fully charged
Charcoal grill and briquettes
Directory of important telephone numbers
Disposable plates, cups and utensils
Extra set of keys
Fill bathtub with water for flushing toilet
Fire extinguisher
First-aid kit
Generator
Personal hygiene items or baby items
Pet food
Propane for your gas barbecue grill
Plastic bucket and garbage bags
Supply of ice in your freezer
Food Safety: Keeping your perishables safe even in the cold weather becomes an issue. Freeze zip-loc bags of water in advance or purchase bags of ice to keep food cold in the freezer or refrigerator. Group foods together in the freezer. Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk, fresh meat and poultry that you may not need immediately to keep them at a safe temperature longer. Freeze gel packs ahead of time for use in coolers. Know where dry ice and block ice can be purchased.
Have a relocation plan: You may be informed by local officials or the Emergency Notification System when sheltering is available. Pack a suitcase to take to a shelter. Personal items might include: eyeglasses, special foods, prescription medications, hygiene items, baby supplies, reading material, etc. Have a prearranged family meeting place away from home. Have a plan for your pets. Be aware of the school policy for releasing children during inclement weather.
911: If you have an emergency that requires first aid, fire or police, dial 911. In the event of a telephone outage and you do not have a cellphone, go or send someone to the nearest firehouse.
Neighbor-to-Neighbor: Reach out! Be aware that you have neighbors who are elderly, live alone or may need assistance.