Summer has officially begun, bringing warmer temperatures and the potential for strong storms. However, we have been working year-round to ensure reliable energy service through essential infrastructure upgrades that help manage rising seasonal demand due to increasing temperatures. This proactive work includes enhancements to fortify the local energy grid and add new innovative, smart technology, aiming to prevent avoidable outages and reinforce the system against the escalating effects of severe summer storms and the predicted severe Atlantic hurricane season.

Our crews are also performing maintenance and inspections to prepare the grid for summer. Work includes inspecting and upgrading equipment, trimming trees, building new underground equipment and installing stronger, tree-resistant aerial cable.

Safety will always remain a priority – and just as we prepare for the summer storm season, you can be ready as well. Here are some tips:

• Download Atlantic City Electric’s mobile app at com/MobileApp. You can use the mobile app to report outages, view estimated restoration times and more.
• Sign up for emergency alerts that provide outage updates and severe weather alerts by going to com/Alerts
• Assemble an emergency storm kit. Include battery-powered radio, flashlight, a first-aid kit, battery-powered or windup clock, extra batteries, medications, multi-purpose tool and list of important/emergency phone numbers.
• Have a supply of bottled water and easy-to-prepare, non-perishable foods available to last at least 72 hours.
• Keep a flashlight with fresh batteries on each floor of your home.
• Enroll in the Emergency Medical Equipment Notification Program at com/EMENP if you rely on electricity to power life-support equipment in your home. This program provides advance notice of scheduled outages and severe weather alerts to qualified participants.
• Identify an alternate location for you and/or your family in case of an extended outage.
• It’s extremely important to review the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operations of your generator. Do not connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring, and never use a generator indoors or any enclosed area.

Being prepared is a responsibility everyone should take seriously. If a severe storm hits, monitor local weather reports regularly and follow the advice of local emergency management officials. You should stay away from downed wires and immediately report a downed wire or service issue by calling 800-833-7476 visiting atlanticcityelectric.com, or through our mobile app.

Managing energy usage is especially important during the summer months as this is typically the time when electricity consumption increases to cool homes and businesses. There are several low- and no-cost tips available that you can follow to reduce your energy use and save money. We also offer a variety of energy efficiency programs that can help save even more. Learn more at atlanticcityelectric.com/WaysToSave.