BGE: 'Prepare for the Possibility of Extended Power Outages...'

With Winter Storm Titan approaching Maryland, BGE is encouraging residents to stock up on supplies and keep a broom handy.

"Customers should prepare for the possibility of extended power outages," Carol Dodson of BGE said in a prepared statement Sunday afternoon, "in the event that freezing rain causes treacherous road conditions, which may delay crew travel and restoration times."

The Baltimore-Washington region is under a winter storm warning until Monday evening, meaning travel conditions may be hazardous. The storm is projected to drop more than 6 inches of snow in some parts of the state, and a layer of ice from freezing rain overnight may coat the ground.

BGE offered these tips for preparing:

• Fill fuel tanks in case outages affect gas stations.
• Keep outside gas meters and equipment clear of ice buildup and snow, including icicles that could drip and damage the equipment. Use a broom rather than a shovel to clear the meter, so that it does not get broken.
• Put water in the bathtub before the storm if you rely on well water.
• Contact BGE at 800-685-0123 if the meter becomes encased in ice.
• Report outages and downed power lines to BGE at 1-877-778-2222, or report power outages online.