CEG Constellation Energy Grp. Common Stock

Baltimore Gas and Electric Company Prepares for Possible Power Outages Resulting From Approaching Storms Soaking Rain and Wind Could Topple Trees Leaving Customers Without Power BALTIMORE, Aug. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE) today announced that it is making preparations in advance of the expected heavy rain and wind associated with Tropical Storm Bonnie and Hurricane Charley. Specifically, utility officials have begun the process of identifying personnel and equipment necessary to restore power in the event of widespread outages. "While we're not anticipating problems on the scale of what the region experienced during Isabel, we have some reason to be concerned given the nature of the two storms and the close timeframe during which both are expected to affect the BGE service territory," said Kenneth W. DeFontes, vice president of electric transmission and distribution. "Of particular concern is the possibility of heavy flooding and the potential impact wind and rain could have on trees. With an already moist soil, the very real potential exists for whole trees to topple onto overhead power lines leaving some without power for an extended period of time." Earlier this week, BGE officials began monitoring the two storms as they churned through the eastern Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. The utility already has participated in several multi-state mutual assistance calls. BGE also has begun the process of identifying what assistance, if any, it might request of out-of-state resources. However, given the widespread and unpredictable tracks of these two storms across the East Coast, BGE anticipates out-of-state resources may be in high demand by many other utilities. BGE advises its customers to consider making the following preparations in advance of the approaching storms: -- Keep emergency telephone numbers in a convenient location along with the following items: portable radio with fresh batteries, flashlights, bottled water, manual can opener, matches, battery- operated or wind-up clock, canned and dried food, first-aid kit, fuses, and Sterno. -- Take steps to keep perishable food and medicine cold, including keeping freezers and refrigerators closed as much as possible. As a reminder, BGE is no longer distributing dry ice in order to better support restoration efforts. -- If dependent upon electric-powered medical equipment, customers are encouraged to make alternate arrangements in the event service is interrupted. -- Disconnect sensitive electronic equipment such as computers and televisions to avoid surge damage. (Surges can occur at other times, so you may want to consider purchasing surge protectors for sensitive equipment). -- Secure or move inside items that may become projectiles during high winds. -- If on well water, fill bathtub with cold water. -- Stay at home or seek shelter if a storm is approaching. If outside, stay away from trees and metal objects. -- To report an outage call BGE at 1-877-778-2222. -- Avoid downed wires and trees. Immediately, report downed wires to BGE and warn others to stay away. Additionally, BGE is providing its customers with the following flood safety tips: -- Proceed with care if experiencing flooding in a basement and or other areas of a home. -- Do not enter a room with standing water, particularly if the water covers electrical outlets or electrical cords that are plugged into outlets. -- Ensure the electrical system is shut off before entering a flooded room or basement. -- Do not attempt to shut off an electrical system where there is standing water or a wet floor. -- If experiencing flooding, do not turn on any lights or appliances without having a comprehensive inspection performed by a licensed electrician and also by a registered plumber with a gasfitter's license for gas appliances. BGE is a member of Constellation Energy (NYSE:CEG), a Fortune 500 integrated energy company based in Baltimore. Constellation Energy is the nation's leading competitive supplier of electricity to large commercial and industrial customers. It owns and operates a diversified fleet of 35 power plants in 12 states. Additionally, Constellation Energy markets energy nationally and manages the associated risks, providing value-added services for its customers. The company also delivers electricity and natural gas through the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), its regulated utility in Central Maryland. In 2003, the combined revenues of the integrated energy company totaled $9.7 billion. DATASOURCE: Baltimore Gas and Electric Company CONTACT: Robert L. Gould or Linda J. Foy of Baltimore Gas and Electric Company, +1-410-234-7433 Web site: http://www.constellation.com/ Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/084087.html

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