Utility Outages and Road Closures

Water and power outages are common emergencies. Power outages are often weather-related. Water outages are typically the result of water main breaks and pumping station failure.

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works owns and operates the metropolitan water system serving Baltimore County and neighboring jurisdictions. The city handles repairs and maintenance of water mains and related infrastructure, as well as public notification for outages and water issues.

PREPARE FOR THREE DAYS

Every household, business and institution needs an emergency plan for dealing with such outages for up to three days. Most emergency management agencies across the U.S. expect citizens to prepare to get along without water or power for up to three days following a serious outage.

Families should have enough bottled water on hand to get through a water outage lasting up to 72 hours. Every person and family is different, so assess your own personal needs of water per day to know how much to store.

If you are an elderly person or a person with disabilities, ask a family member or a friend to purchase extra water for you. If you have vulnerable relatives or neighbors, make sure they have extra water. Do not wait until an outage occurs.

A tip for citizens on the municipal water system: During an outage, pour water down your toilet bowl to flush it manually. Consider purchasing additional water strictly for flushing. In winter, melt snow on top of the stove, if possible, and pour down the toilet to flush.

FEMA provides useful information about storing water. FEMA also provides information about safe, alternative water sources and purifying questionable alternative water sources by boiling or chlorinating.

Flashlights with extra batteries are essential. Powerful battery-powered lanterns are a wise investment. Do not use candles during a power outage because of the risk of fire.

Portable generators are popular and useful during a power outage. But they emit deadly carbon monoxide gas and must never be used indoors. Always place generators at least 15 feet from doors and windows.

Some families use dry ice for refrigeration following an outage. Baltimore County does not provide dry ice.

Families with members who have power-dependent health needs (oxygen, dialysis and others) should have an emergency plan in place that addresses these issues.

REPORT A LOCAL POWER OUTAGE

To report a local power outage at your home or facility, contact BGE. BGE's online services and phone number are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.:

Find the latest road closures in Baltimore County.

For state roads and highways, visit the Maryland Department of Transportation's website.