(NEWARK, N.J. – April 3, 2018) Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G), New Jersey’s largest electric and gas utility, is preparing for the approaching system that could bring thunderstorms, rain and gusty winds.

"We’re fortunate that current forecasts for New Jersey predict less severe storms than those affecting other parts of the country between today and tomorrow,” said John Latka, senior vice president of electric and gas operations for PSE&G. “Nonetheless, we'll have additional personnel scheduled and contractors on standby, with extra tree personnel and equipment at the ready. Our employees are rechecking that all objects are secured at our stations and division headquarters. We encourage our customers to do the same at their homes and businesses.”

High winds can cause flying debris, and bring down trees and power lines. Customers should be cautious and stay alert to their surroundings during and after storms:

- Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Do not approach or drive over a downed line and do not touch anything it might be in contact with. If a wire falls on or near your car, stay inside the car, call 911, and do not get out until PSE&G deenergizes the line. If you MUST get out of the vehicle because it is on fire, jump as far as possible away from the vehicle, with both feet landing on the ground at the same time, and hop or shuffle away.

- To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, do not run any gasoline-powered generators in a garage or any other enclosed space.

To report downed wires or power outages, call PSE&G’s Customer Service line at 1-800-436-PSEG.  Also, customers can report outages by logging into their PSE&G account online or by texting “OUT” to 4PSEG (47734). The utility’s mobile-friendly website includes an “Outage Map” that is updated every 15 minutes and displays the location and status of power outages in PSE&G’s service area.