SAN DIEGO, Feb. 27, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- As San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) crews prepare for periods of heavy rain, gusty winds and scattered lightning to continue, the utility is reminding customers to be on alert and prepare for unplanned power outages.    

"As the region prepares for much-needed rainfall, SDG&E crews are ready to respond to any impacts the weather may have on our electrical system," said David L. Geier, vice president of electric operations for SDG&E. "We're committed to providing reliable electricity service to our customers but sometimes unexpected power outages may occur, especially during storms and high winds."

The utility reminds customers to follow the following storm safety tips:

• Always assume that power lines are energized. Fallen electric lines are extremely dangerous. Report any downed lines to 9-1-1 and SDG&E immediately at 1-800-611-SDGE (7343).
• If a person has come into contact with a power line, don't touch the person or any equipment involved or nearby. The line may still be energized and could be extremely dangerous.
• Keep battery-operated flashlights handy in case the power goes out. Do not rely on candles for lighting during a power outage.

For other safety tips, please visit SDGE.com/safety.

SDG&E is a regulated public utility that provides safe and reliable energy service to 3.4 million consumers through 1.4 million electric meters and 861,000 natural gas meters in San Diego and southern Orange counties. The utility's area spans 4,100 square miles. SDG&E is committed to creating ways to help customers save energy and money every day. SDG&E is a subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE), a Fortune 500 energy services holding company based in San Diego. Connect with SDG&E's Customer Contact Center at 800-411-7343, on Twitter (@SDGE) and Facebook.

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SOURCE San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E)