FirstEnergy crews heading east as parts of Ohio prepare for winter storm

CLEVELAND - FirstEnergy is sending crews to the East Coast in preparation for this week’s snow storm.

The latest round of winter weather could leave 3 to 7 inches of snow in the nation’s capital and parts of Maryland may get more than a foot. Meanwhile in northeast Ohio, Power of Five meteorologist Mark Johnson said Ashland, Richland, Holmes and Tuscarawas counties could see 3 to 6 inches of snow. Huron, Stark and Wayne counties are expecting heavy snowfall.

“As part of the company’s proactive storm response, more than 300 line personnel and hazard responders from FirstEnergy utilities in Ohio and western Pennsylvania are being redeployed to areas served by Potomac Edison in Maryland, Jersey Central Power & Light, and Metropolitan Edison that could be affected by the high winds and snow,” the company said in a news release on Tuesday.

FirstEnergy said they have already been in contact with tree contractors and emergency management officials.

In a news release Tuesday, FirstEnergy said residents should prepare for the storm by having a flashlight and batteries ready, as well as filling the bathtub with water if you have a well.

The company urged residents to report power outages using its free app for iPhone and Android users. Customers can also call 1-888-LIGHTSS to notify FirstEnergy of problems. Downed power lines can also be reported to police and fire departments.