PSEG: Be Prepared, Stay Clear of Downed Power Lines During Nor'easter

Winter Storm Damon isn’t over yet. The snow will finally arrive today at rush hour, and continue to fall through tomorrow morning. The National Weather Service estimated that as much as 3-6 inches of snow could fall in Bergen, Morris, Sussex, Passaic and Essex counties, while 1-3 could fall in the Jersey Shore and South Jersey. 

The Nor’easter could also bring heavy rains and strong winds that could bring down power lines in this area. With that in mind, PSE&G is offering these tips to help locals prepare for the storm.

“In anticipation of the storm, PSE&G has ensured that all available personnel are ready to respond,” a representative from PSE&G said. “We have also ensured that additional supplies, including poles and transformers, are on hand.”

PSE&G urged customers to be cautious if they see downed lines.

“Downed wires should always be considered “live,” the rep added. “Do not approach or drive over a downed line and do not touch anything that it might be in contact with.”

How to Prepare for the Storm

• Charge your cell phones, tablets and other mobile devices.

• Fill up your car’s fuel tank.

• Ensure you have a battery-powered radio and a supply of fresh batteries.

• Check your supply of flashlights, blankets, nonperishable food and bottled water for everyone in your family.

• Put your refrigerator and freezer at the coldest setting. Keep a blanket handy to throw over these appliances for added insulation. If electricity is interrupted, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

• Compile a list of emergency phone numbers, including PSE&G’s Customer Service line: 1-800-436-PSEG. Call this number to report power outages or downed wires.

How to Stay Informed

• Sign up for My Account and bookmark the mobile-friendly homepage on your smart phone so it’s easy to report outages and check restoration progress. If you are already registered for My Account, be sure that the phone numbers in your profile are up to date.

• To report power outages via text message, and receive outage updates by text and email, sign up for MyAlerts.

• Updated every 15 minutes, PSE&G’s online “Outage Map” displays the location and status of power outages in PSE&G’s service territory.

• PSE&G’s Twitter and Facebook pages also keep the public informed about our restoration progress. Sign up as a follower to monitor restoration process.

• Be sure everyone in the family is prepared. Go to pseg.com/sesamestreet to learn how to download the PSEG and Sesame Street “Let’s Get Ready!” emergency preparedness app, along with tips on how to be ready for any emergency.

To report downed wires or power outages, call PSE&G’s Customer Service line at 1-800-436-PSEG. You can also report power outages and view the status of an outage by logging in to My Account at pseg.com, PSE&G’s mobile-friendly website.