Governor Corbett Announces Important Contact Information, Resources for Pennsylvanians Affected by Hurricane Sandy

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today announced the following list of important phone numbers, texting resources and websites for Pennsylvanians who have lost power, require shelter or are experiencing emotional distress in relation to Hurricane Sandy.

Pennsylvanians are reminded to write this information down and to store it in a safe location so it is easily accessible in the event of power outage.

For the latest information on Hurricane Sandy:

Visit www.pa.gov for Governor Corbett's most recent storm update, live storm tracking, local shelter information, updated closure information, a list of important phone numbers, an emergency preparedness guide and live twitter updates from Governor Corbett and the Weather Channel.

If you are experiencing emotional distress:

Call the Disaster Distress Helpline toll-free number, 1-800-985-5990, or text 'TalkWithUs' to 66746. Spanish-speakers can text 'Hablanos' to 66746. Calls and texts will be answered by trained crisis counselors from call centers throughout the U.S.

Should you lose power:

Please contact your electric company. Do not assume your neighbors have called.

The following is a list of Pennsylvania electric company, toll-free numbers:

Citizens Electric of Lewisburg -- 570-524-2231
Duquesne Light -- 1-888-393-7000
FirstEnergy Companies --1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) – this includes: Pennsylvania Power Company (Penn Power), Metropolitan Edison Company (Met-Ed), First Energy Company Pennsylvania Electric (Penelec), and West Penn Power (formerly Allegheny Power)
PPL -- 1-800-DIAL-PPL (1-800-342-5775)
PECO Energy Company - 1-800-841-4141
Pike County Light & Power Company -- 1-877-434-4100
UGI Utilities Inc. -- 1-800-276-2722
Wellsboro Electric Company -- 570-724-3516

To find a shelter near you:

Visit www.redcross.org/find-help/shelter. Or text "shelter" + your zip code to 43362.

If you're an older Pennsylvanian:

Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) can coordinate shelter or find services for older Pennsylvanians during Hurricane Sandy.  Residents are encouraged to call 1-800- 490-8505 to be connected with an AAA in their local area.

AAAs are the local representatives of the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. They carry out many programs such as:

• Home delivered meals;
• Family caregiver support;
• In-home services;
• Assistance for individuals with finding residential living and domiciliary care; and
• Protective services.

In counties affected by power outages or flooding from the storm, the AAAs are prepared to handle the immediate and long-term needs of older adults and their families.

If you need to evacuate:

Specific information about any major state road closures is available by calling 511 or by visiting www.511pa.com.

Pennsylvanians who leave their homes should follow the directions of local law enforcement to ensure the safe and steady flow of traffic. In addition to driving cautiously, motorists should also expect delays and allow extra time in their travel schedules.

Media contacts:
Janet Kelley, 717-425-1046

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor