READING – Pennsylvania Electric Company (Penelec) is preparing for the possible impact of forecasted ice and snow accumulations that could affect parts of its service area Friday and into the weekend.
As a result of the weather forecasts, Penelec has implemented the company’s storm preparation process, including staffing additional dispatchers and analysts at the regional dispatch office, and making arrangements to bring in additional line, substation and forestry personnel, as required, based on the severity of the weather. In addition, contractors have been notified they could be required to assist with storm restoration efforts over the next several days.
“With the company’s lockout of Utility Workers Union of America Local 180, Penelec supervisory personnel stand ready to safely restore service to our customers who could be affected by the severe weather expected to impact the region this weekend,” saidScott Wyman, regional president, Penelec. “As was the case with the recent Thanksgiving storm, we also have the ability to bring in additional managers and supervisors from other FirstEnergy utilities along with contractor crews to assist with the restoration process, if needed.”
Customers who are without power are encouraged to call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) to report their outage or click the “Report Outage” link on www.firstenergycorp.com via smartphone. In the event of severe weather, customers should immediately report downed wires to Penelec or their local police or fire department. Customers should never go near a downed power line, even if they think it is no longer carrying electricity.
For updated information on the company’s current outages, FirstEnergy’s storm restoration process and tips for staying safe, visit the 24/7 Power Center at www.firstenergycorp.com/outages. Penelec customers can find the latest information on Twitter@Penelec.
Penelec customers also can utilize a new free smartphone app to report outages and access important information and services related to their electric accounts. The app is available for Apple® iPhone® and Android™ smartphones. Customers can use the keyword “FirstEnergy” to locate the apps in the online store.
Penelec is a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE). Penelec serves approximately 590,000 customers in 31 Pennsylvaniacounties.
FirstEnergy is a diversified energy company dedicated to safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its 10 electric distribution companies form one of the nation’s largest investor-owned electric systems, serving customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York. Follow FirstEnergy on Twitter @FirstEnergyCorp.
