PSE&G announced it is prepared for winter weather expected to bring freezing rain and snow to its service area from Friday, December 26, through Saturday morning, December 27. The company said that snow and ice can disrupt power supplies and create hazards, but that it is ready to respond to potential outages and increased requests for heating system repairs.
The utility encouraged customers to prepare ahead of the storm by learning how to report outages and stay safe during severe weather. Customers can find more information on preparation at pseg.com/StormSafety.
John Latka, PSE&G senior vice president of electric transmission and distribution, stated: “The safety of our customers and crews is always top priority and we’re closely monitoring the weather systems. We are ready to respond as weather conditions permit. Our crews will work 24×7 to restore service as safely and as quickly as possible.”
PSE&G reminded customers they are responsible for providing safe access for service calls by keeping walkways clear of snow and ice, as well as ensuring gas meters remain unobstructed. Damage to gas meters could create leak hazards.
In anticipation of the storm, PSE&G reported that its crews have completed system checks and ensured critical materials like poles, wires, transformers, fuel, and other supplies are available. Additional staff have been scheduled in case of service interruptions or increased demand for heating repairs.
Customers can report outages or receive updates by texting OUT to 4PSEG (47734), using the PSE&G app or website at pseg.com/myaccount, or calling 1-800-436-PSEG (7734). The company’s outage map provides real-time updates on restoration efforts across New Jersey at pseg.com/outagecenter. Heating system repair appointments can be made online or by calling 1-800-350-PSEG (7734).
PSE&G emphasized safety around downed power lines: such wires should always be considered live; people should stay at least 30 feet away from downed lines and avoid anything touching them. Downed wires may be hidden in standing water or snow.
For those using generators during outages, PSE&G advised following manufacturer instructions strictly. Generators should never be used indoors due to carbon monoxide risks; they must be kept at least 20 feet from doors or windows. Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed throughout homes.
The utility also recommended preparing emergency kits with essentials like battery-powered radios, flashlights, bottled water, nonperishable food items, blankets for warmth in winter outages, charging mobile devices in advance, knowing how to open garage doors manually if needed, and planning evacuation routes if necessary.
Additional tips included keeping furnace pipes clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup inside homes; inspecting chimneys; clearing dryer vents; replacing old water heaters when necessary; not storing propane tanks indoors; avoiding blocking oven vents while cooking; recognizing flood risks associated with melting snow or heavy rain; and changing connectors when installing new gas appliances.
If a gas odor is detected indoors during winter months—when gas appliance use rises—customers are instructed to exit immediately before calling PSE&G or emergency services from a safe distance.
Public Service Electric & Gas Co., New Jersey’s oldest and largest public utility provider for electricity and gas delivery—and one of the largest utilities nationwide—has received several awards including the ReliabilityOne Award for superior electric reliability in the Mid-Atlantic region over two decades running. It has also been recognized multiple times by ENERGY STAR for energy efficiency program delivery. PSE&G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc., which focuses on clean energy infrastructure initiatives.
