Hurricane Irene: PSE&G Makes Final Storm Preparations

Hurricane Irene blows northward, bringing with it the potential for significant damage and extended power outages. Public Service Electric and Gas Company says it is the final stages of making preparations to meet the challenge.

“Our state has never before experienced a storm of this magnitude,” said Ralph LaRossa, PSE&G president and chief operating officer, who doesn't paint a pretty picture. “We expect significant damage from the extraordinary wind and rain expected to pummel New Jersey this weekend. Full restoration [of power] could take between one and three weeks.”

To that end, LaRossa said about 6,000 PSE&G employees will work on the restoration effort, including 840 linemen and 540 tree contractors directly responding to outages.

The linemen and contractors can start their work safely "once the hurricane pulls away," he said, noting that the safety of workers and customers is the company's primary goal.

"We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our customers as we deal with what may be an unprecedented event,” said LaRossa.

PSG&E policy holds that power restoration starts in areas with the largest numbers of customers and with “priority” customers such as hospitals, police stations, fire stations, water and sewer facilities, media and communications facilities and customers on life-sustaining medical equipment. 

Electricity isn't the only commodity at risk if Irene hits. Heavy rain and the predicted storm surge could result in gas outages as well.

PSE&G spokesperson Karen Johnson reminded customers to call the company to report gas odors, and to contact their local fire department and the municipal construction office to receive assistance in pumping water out of basements.

To report downed wires or power outages, call the automated customer service system at 800-436-PSEG.  Johnson said that if you have specific information regarding damage to wires, transformers or poles, you should use the option to speak directly to a live customer service representative. 

To keep track of general outage activity, check online at PSE&G'S Outage Center. Updates are also posted on pseg.com during severe weather. In addition, if outages are widespread, the utility will activate its Twitter page to keep the public informed. Follow PSEG on Twitter at @psegoutageinfo.