BALTIMORE (WJZ)– BGE is asking its customers to be cautious of individuals posing as the utility’s employees and entering into their homes and businesses.

BGE says the imposters may take advantage of the recent power outages in the area to steal money and other valuables from unsuspecting residents.

The company reminds customers that its employees visit homes only when they experience gas or electric emergencies, and when they do, their photo identification cards are always visible.

Jeannette Mills, BGE’s vice president and chief customer officer, said the company also does not accept cash payments at the time of service but sends bills to its customers by mail.

“Customers can always call BGE to verify an individual visiting their home is a BGE employee,” Mills said. “Additionally, customers should never give personal information such as credit card numbers to people claiming to represent BGE in telephone calls.”

BGE advises customers not to open their doors to someone they do not recognize and request the employees to show their IDs, particularly if they did not request service.

You can also call 800-685-0123 to verify a BGE employee’s identity.