JCP&L Readies Itself for Possible Hurricane Sandy-Related Outages

Weather forecasters predict a very powerful, damaging, multi-day storm with high winds, heavy precipitation and flooding across a wide portion of the east coast.  Jersey Central Power and Light warns that depending on the severity of Sandy's impact on the electrical system, customers need to prepare for the possibility of power outages lasting up to seven to 10 days.

The utility said it is important to take action before the storm occurs:

• Keep a flashlight and extra batteries handy.  Use care when burning candles; open flames are a fire hazard.
• Gather extra blankets or a sleeping bag for each person.  Do not use gas stoves, kerosene heaters or other open-flame heat sources to prevent deadly carbon monoxide gas from building up in your home.
• If you have a water well and pump, keep an emergency supply of bottled water and/or fill your bathtub with fresh water.
• Stock an emergency supply of nonperishable convenience foods that do not require cooking.
• Keep a battery-powered radio with extra batteries on hand.  Tune in to a local radio station for current storm information.
• Have a hard-wired telephone or a charged cell phone handy in the event you need to report your electricity is out.  Mobile phones can be charged in your vehicle using a car charger when power is out.  If you have a smartphone, this will ensure you have access to online information sources. 

JCP&L is mobilizing internal crews and support staff to assist in the restoration process if the storm causes large-scale power outages, according to Chuck Jones, president of FirstEnergy Utilities. He said the company is getting ready to bring in outside utility crews, electrical contractors and tree contractors should they be needed.

"Based on current predictions, we are making plans to position our crews to get ahead of the storm and minimize the impact on our customers," he said in a statement.  "FirstEnergy crews and additional hazard teams and support staff are ready to assist the restoration process."

Should you lose power, call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) to report their outage. Immediately report downed wires to JCP&L, local police or your district fire department.  Never go near a downed power line, even if you think it's no longer carrying electricity.

Emergency power generators offer an option for customers needing or wanting uninterrupted service.  However, to ensure the safety of the home's occupants as well as that of JCP&L employees who may be working on power lines in the area, the proper generator should be selected and installed by a qualified electrician.  When operating a generator, always disconnect the power coming into your home.  Otherwise, power from your generator could be sent back onto the electrical lines, creating a hazardous situation for utility workers. 

You can stay up-to-date on the utility's storm preparation efforts, current outages, the storm restoration process and safety tips via the 24/7 Power Center at www.firstenergycorp.com/outages_help.  JCP&L will also provide updates via Twitter: @JCP_L.