TOMS RIVER – Ocean County residents can expect to see a low-flying and hovering helicopter in the skies through the middle of June as Jersey Central Power & Light Co. conducts an inspection of its largest power lines.
The helicopter is expected to take flight on or about June 12 and continue with the aerial inspections for about a week, said Ron Heinzman, Director of the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs.
Heinzman, who is also director of the Ocean County Energy Council, said the helicopter will be easily identified as a solid blue-colored Jet Ranger with tail number N719CB.
“Residents who see this helicopter at a low altitude should not be concerned as these inspections are vital and help ensure that JCP&L is prepared for severe weather and other events that could impact service to county residents and businesses,” said Gary Quinn, Deputy Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.
Quinn said that while the inspections are scheduled to last about seven days, bad weather or other unforeseen events could delay or prolong the inspections.
“Anyone with questions or concerns can reach out to JCP&L or the Department of Consumer Affairs at 732-929-2105,” Quinn said.
According to the power company, a routine visual patrol is a “general inspection of the structures, conductors, and all associated hardware on the transmission line(s) where the onboard inspector is looking for any outstanding issues or immediate threats to the reliability of the transmission line(s).
The helicopter may also be seen hovering and/or circling to get a closer look at any problems that may be found during these patrols.
Also, the utility warned that because the inspection includes main transmission lines, the helicopter may be seen outside of JCP&L’s normal service area.
