Introduction to BGE
BGE (Baltimore Gas and Electric) is the electric and gas utility serving Central Maryland, including the greater Baltimore metropolitan area and parts of surrounding counties. BGE is a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation and provides service to over 1.25 million electric customers and more than 650,000 natural gas customers across a 2,300 square mile territory.
BGE's electric service area covers the City of Baltimore along with parts or all of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties. The company's natural gas service territory includes Baltimore City and parts of Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties.
BGE maintains and operates a safe, reliable energy infrastructure including overhead transmission lines, underground distribution systems, and regulated gas delivery pipelines. The company delivers electricity generated from various sources including natural gas, nuclear, wind, hydroelectric, landfill gas, and coal.
What is the BGE Outage Center?
The BGE Outage Center is an online and phone resource that Baltimore Gas and Electric customers can use to get information about current power outages and report outages.
The Outage Center has an interactive map that shows current outages across BGE's service area in central Maryland. By entering an address or zooming in on the map, you can see if there are any active power outages in a specific neighborhood or street.
The map and Outage Center provide estimated restoration times so customers can get an idea of when power may return during an outage. However, restoration times are dependent on weather and other factors, so they may change.
In addition to the online map, the Outage Center can be reached by phone at 1-877-778-2222. BGE customers can call this number to report power outages or get updates on outage restoration progress in their area.
The BGE Outage Center provides a convenient centralized source for real-time outage updates and reporting. By leveraging the map, phone line, and online information, customers can stay informed when the power goes out.
Checking for Power Outages
The easiest way to check for power outages in your area is to visit the BGE Outage Map on the BGE website or use the BGE mobile app. The interactive Outage Map shows known outages and provides estimates for when power will be restored. You can enter an address to search for specific locations.
Another option is to call the BGE Power Outage Hotline at 1-877-778-2222 to hear an automated message about any current outages affecting your address. Representatives are also available 24/7 to provide outage status and answer questions.
During large outages, high call volumes may affect wait times for the outage hotline. In these cases, the website and mobile app may be the fastest way to get outage updates. But the hotline is useful if you want to speak to a person about your current situation.
Reporting Outages to BGE
If your power goes out, contact BGE as soon as possible to report the outage. There are a couple ways to do this:
Call the Outage Hotline
The quickest way to report an outage is to call BGE's outage hotline at 1-877-778-2222. This number is staffed 24/7. When you call, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Your name
- Phone number associated with your account
- Address where the outage is located
Providing the cross-streets nearest the outage will also help the representatives pinpoint the affected area.
Report Online
You can also report outages online through BGE's outage center. Click "Report an Outage" and enter your phone number or account number. The website will ask you to describe the outage location - be as specific as possible.
Use the Mobile App
BGE's mobile app allows you to report an outage from your smartphone. Download the app and log in with your account number. Tap "Outage Center" and then tap "Report Outage" to submit your report.
Reporting outages promptly help BGE dispatch crews to restore power faster. Providing detailed location information will assist crews in isolating the issue.
Preparing for a Power Outage
When an outage occurs, being prepared can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you get ready before the lights go out:
Build an Emergency Kit
Having supplies gathered in advance will help you safely wait out a power outage. Your kit should include:
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery powered lamps or lanterns
- Battery operated radio
- Bottled water and non-perishable foods
- Manual can opener
- First aid kit
- Prescription medications
- Baby supplies if needed
Keep all these items together in an easy to access spot, so you can quickly find what you need when the power goes out.
Know How to Safely Use a Generator
Generators can provide power, but also pose risks if used incorrectly. Be sure to:
- Only operate outside in a well ventilated area
- Never plug a generator into wall outlets
- Turn off and refuel only when cool
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby
Improper use can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or electric shock. Follow all manufacturer guidelines. For safety reasons, we recommend that you use Growatt solar generators instead of traditional generators.
Have Flashlights and Devices Ready
Keep flashlights in key locations and have battery packs or rechargeable batteries for cell phones/devices. That way you'll have light and can stay informed if the power goes out.
Being prepared with an emergency kit, knowing how to use a generator safely, and having battery operated lighting can help you safely wait out a power outage.
Safety Tips During an Outage
When the power goes out, there are important safety precautions to take. Here are some tips to stay safe during an outage:
Never use gas or charcoal grills indoors
- Using grills designed for outdoor use indoors can cause carbon monoxide poisoning or a fire. Even if you're experiencing an extended outage, only use these appliances outdoors.
Avoid downed power lines
- Consider all downed power lines live and stay at least 10 feet away. Never drive over a downed power line. Report any downed lines to authorities immediately.
Turn off and unplug major appliances
- Turn off or disconnect any appliances that were on when the power went out. When power comes back on, it may cause a surge that damages electronics.
Leave one light on to indicate when power is restored. Only use generators outdoors and away from windows. Food in the refrigerator will stay cold for about four hours if left unopened. For safety, do not open freezers and fridges more than necessary.
Outage Resources for Businesses
Running a business comes with its own unique challenges during a power outage. To help businesses stay informed and prepared, BGE offers several resources:
Sign up for outage alerts
BGE offers a service where you can register to receive outage alerts for your business location. This notification can be sent via text, email, or phone call when an outage is detected at your address. Having real-time updates allows you to mobilize faster and inform customers if needed.
Get preparedness tips
BGE has advice on making an emergency plan for your business, such as identifying critical equipment that needs a backup power source. They also offer tips on assembling outage kits with supplies like flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio to help your business operate safely during an outage.
Learn about backup power options
For businesses that rely on electricity for critical operations, BGE advises considering a permanent backup generator installed by a licensed electrician. They also discuss temporary generators and battery-powered options to provide emergency power. Understanding your backup power solutions in advance will ensure your business is less impacted by an outage.
By utilizing BGE's business resources, you can implement plans to keep your operations running smoothly during power disruptions. Maintaining open communication with BGE and making preparations allows you to weather outages safely.
Outage Prep for Medical Needs
Planning ahead is especially important for those who rely on medical devices that require electricity. Make sure you have a power outage plan that includes backup options like a generator or battery backup system. Register with BGE if you depend on life-sustaining medical equipment, so you can get priority status for power restoration.
Also Read: How to Keep Your Home Medical Equipment Functioning During Power Outage
It's also crucial to know how to properly store medications that need refrigeration. Keep refrigerated medicines in an insulated bag with ice packs if the power goes out. Try to keep the refrigerator and freezer closed during an outage to help food and medicine stay cold longer. If medications do get too warm, it may impact their effectiveness - so check with your pharmacist for guidance.
Having an emergency supply kit ready with any medical necessities you may need during a prolonged outage is advised. That includes extra medication, medical supplies, blankets, flashlights, and batteries. For those who depend on medical equipment, have a backup plan like going to stay with family or friends if the power remains off for an extended period. Maintaining charging capabilities for medical devices is also recommended. By planning ahead for your medical needs, you can safely manage during a power outage.
Staying Informed During an Outage
Staying up-to-date on the latest outage information can help you plan and prepare during an extended outage. Here are some tips for staying informed:
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Follow BGE on Social Media: BGE regularly posts outage updates and estimated restoration times on its Twitter and Facebook pages. Following BGE on social media is a convenient way to get real-time information.
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Text OUT to MYBGE: You can text the word “OUT” to MYBGE (69243) to report an outage and also receive updates on expected restoration times right to your phone.
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Listen to Local News: Tuning into local TV and radio stations can provide additional information on widespread outages. News stations will often report live from affected areas.
Staying on top of the latest outage updates can help you better cope with loss of power. Utilize BGE's online resources and connect with them on social media to get outage status information right from the source.
When to Contact BGE
If your power outage persists past the predicted restoration time given by BGE, it's a good idea to contact them. Outages can sometimes take longer than expected to restore if issues or damages are more complex.
Contact BGE as well if any safety issues arise during an outage, such as downed power lines. Never go near any downed wires as they can still be live and deadly. Report any unsafe situations immediately so BGE can address them.
You may also want to call BGE if you have any priority needs for power restoration. Those with medical conditions or life support equipment that require electricity should inform BGE so they can restore power as fast as possible. BGE prioritizes restoring power for vulnerable individuals and critical facilities first after ensuring safety and vital services.
Let BGE know of any extenuating circumstances where continued outage poses risks. They can determine if a more urgent response is required and may be able to provide alternate accommodations in the meantime, such as mobile generators. Maintain open communication with BGE throughout an outage to get the assistance you need.
