Those with Mon Power Service in Monroe County could expect a power outage for the working day early next week.
A message announcing the outage was sent to customers earlier this week. A representative from Mon Power confirmed the planned outage with The West Virginia Daily News, reading the entire announcement.
“This message is for Mon Power on Monday, November 22, 2021,” the service representative read. “There will be a planned power outage to upgrade facilities. The outage will affect customers in the vicinity of Gap Mills, Glace, Pickaway, Second Creek, Sinks Grove, and Union West Virginia. … [Some customers will] experience service interruption from approximately 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, the planned outage will be rescheduled for Tuesday, November 23. And then if you have questions you can call Mon Power at 800-686-0022. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we put in the work to improve your electric service reliability.”
According to the Mon Power website, firstenergycorp.com, unexpected outages should be reported as soon as possible.
“Customers should call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877),” reads the website. “Follow the recorded prompts to let us know your power is out. We will respond as soon as possible. Customers with a communication disability can report an outage using the appropriate TTY/TDD relay service, our online form, or text messaging. Please report a downed wire only if you actually see one at your location. Do not assume that because your power is out there must be a wire down somewhere. For more information, see our Frequently Asked Questions [section on the website]. Remember to keep a safe distance from any downed wire.”
It’s also possible to report an outage over text message. The website directs customers to use “your mobile phone, text REG to 544487 (LIGHTS) to get started. You’ll need your 12-digit account number and your ZIP Code. … Outage information is updated approximately every 15 minutes.” The texting service will also respond to “OUT” to report an outage and “STAT” to obtain the current outage status.
Mon Power also offers a few tips for making it through either an intention or unintentional power outage:
• Check your circuit breakers or fuses.
• If no breaker is tripped or fuse is blown, the problem may be in the connection between our wires and your home.
• Locate generators outdoors and away from windows.
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home when cold.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics to ease the initial load when power is restored.
• Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependant medical devices.
• Throw out perishable food in your refrigerator after 4 hours without power.
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