As cold weather conditions affect the region, FirstEnergy Corp. is advising customers on how to stay safe and manage energy costs. The company's electric services cover a six-state area, all expected to experience sub-zero temperatures in the coming days.
FirstEnergy has prepared for the harsh weather by conducting pre-winter inspections of critical electrical equipment and adjusting staffing levels. Non-critical maintenance work is postponed in areas facing extreme cold. Discussions with regional grid operators are ongoing to ensure grid reliability.
The company emphasizes safety during these conditions, offering tips such as not leaving heating appliances unattended, avoiding indoor use of gas stoves or charcoal grills due to carbon monoxide risks, and ensuring portable generators are used outdoors only.
To conserve energy, customers are advised to dress warmly indoors, rotate ceiling fans clockwise at low speed, and keep fireplace dampers closed when not in use. Other suggestions include sealing leaks and keeping electronic devices charged for emergencies.
For those struggling with higher electric bills due to increased usage during cold spells, FirstEnergy provides various assistance programs. Information on bill payment support can be found on their website.
In case of power outages caused by winter weather, customers should report issues via phone or online platforms provided by FirstEnergy. The company offers email and text alerts for outage updates and restoration information.
FirstEnergy serves six million customers across Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York through its extensive transmission network connecting the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Contact details for further inquiries include Todd Meyers for West Penn Power among others at (724) 838-6650; Hannah Catlett for Ohio Edison among others at (440) 554-5346; Will Boye for Mon Power among others at (301) 790-6420; Chris Hoenig for JCP&L at (609) 350-8599.