MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The primary threat of the approaching remnants of Hurricane Ida are expected to be rain not wind, but First Energy is preparing to respond if power outages occur.
Over the weekend, workers from First Energy mobilized to Louisiana to help those without power in the aftermath of Ida.
” First Energy as whole is sending approximately 500 employees to Louisiana to help with power restoration efforts following Hurricane Ida,” Boye said,” And that includes about 20 employees from Mon power.”
Boye said they have other options for additional resources and any response required by the approaching storm would not be affected.
“Depending upon the weather we can reallocate our resources within Mon Power and West Virginia to the areas that need it most,” Boye said,” We can also on contractors and additional personnel as needed from other states.”
If power does go out, Boye says call and report the outage to First Energy, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve perishable items and use battery operated lanterns rather than candles.
“We want to remind all of our customers that if they do see a downed powerline stay at least 30-feet away from it, don’t go near the pole or anything touching the line,” Boye said,” Call 911 to report a downed powerline.”
If a power outage lasts for an extended period of time a generator could be used. According to Boye, generators must be placed in well ventilated outdoor areas to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
“We want to make sure those folks are locating the generator outside of the home and far away from windows, doors and vents,” Boye said,” Because exhaust from back-up generators does contain a high level of carbon monoxide which can be dangerous.”
What’s left of Ida is expected to arrive Tuesday and rain, heavy at times is expected through Wednesday evening.
” Our folks will be working as quickly and safely as possible to restore power during this rain event,” Boye said.