MAYS LANDING, N.J. - Atlantic City Electric reminds customers that it is still hurricane season and to be prepared in the event a hurricane or any severe weather affects our region. Hurricane season officially began June 1 and lasts until November 30. September is National Preparedness Month.

"It's very important residents be prepared, especially during hurricane season, have an emergency plan in place, and have an assembled emergency storm kit ready if needed," said Vince Maione, Region President, Atlantic City Electric. "Atlantic City Electric is prepared for what is predicted to be a very active hurricane season."

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook forecasts the likelihood of 13 to 19 named storms, including six to nine hurricanes with winds topping 74 mph. Three to five storms could reach major hurricane status with sustained winds of 111 mph or more.

Atlantic City Electric Emergency Preparedness Tips for residents

Assemble an emergency storm kit containing:

• Flashlights and fresh batteries
• Battery-powered radio or TV and extra batteries
• Land-line phone with cord (cordless phones require electricity)
• Battery-powered or windup alarm clock
• Supply of bottled water (one gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable foods that require no heating
• Blankets, bedding or sleeping bags
• First-aid kit and prescription medications
• Hand-operated can opener
• Special medical or infant supplies
• A variety of hand tools
• List of emergency phone numbers
• Develop and practice an emergency plan with everyone in your household.
• Fill your bathtub with water if your water supply depends on electricity.
• If you or someone you know relies on life-support equipment that requires electricity to operate, identify a location with emergency power capabilities and make plans to go there during a prolonged outage.
• Make sure cell phones are charged.
• Protect and unplug electronic equipment.
• Tune in to local news broadcasts for the latest weather and emergency information.
• Follow the advice of your local emergency management officials.

• If you need to use a portable generator, follow the manufacturer's instructions and use only when necessary. Don't overload it and turn it off at night while you sleep and when you are away from home.

Additional tips are available in our "Storm Preparation Handbook" at atlanticcityelectric.com.

Customers should call 1-800-833-7476 to report power outages or to report a downed wire. It's very important people stay clear of any downed wires.

Find additional information by visiting www.atlanticcityelectric.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/atlanticcityelectric and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/acelecconnect. Our mobile app is available at www.atlanticcityelectric.com/mobileapp.