Van Wert offers water; Latest on storm operations - Hometownstations.com-WLIO- Lima, OH News Weather Sports

Updated 3:30pm 7/1/12

Widespread power outages continue in large portions of Van Wert County. According to the AEP website, outages are effecting over 500,000 customers in Ohio and service may not be restored in some areas for another 3-5 days.

County residents who need large quantities of water can come to the Van Wert City fresh water treatment plant on US 127 South with their own bulk tank and purchase water for $6.00 / 1,000gals. Hours of operation are 8:00am - 10:00pm Monday - Friday.

Van Wert Jobs and Family Services has announced that any of their clients who received food assistance in the month of June are eligible to apply for spoiled food reimbursement through an application process. Applications may be picked up at the JFS Office.

The Van Wert chapter of the American Red Cross continues to operate an emergency shelter at the Van Wert Middle School, 10708 SR118. Those who need assistance should arrive at the shelter with their own medication, clothes, pillow and blanket. Showers will be available and residents should bring their own soap, towels and other hygiene items. Pets will not be permitted in the shelter. If you have no other means to get to the shelter, contact the Van Wert Emergency Management Agency 419-238-1300. People who need small quantities of water can obtain them at the shelter.  You should provide your own container and should recieve no more then 25 gallons.

Main transmission lines north of the city of Van Wert were damaged in the storm. Power crews have reroute electricity with priority on restoring service to health care facilities. At 8:00am 7/1/12 much of the south end of Van Wert City had power restored. AEP crews are working to establish service in the Village of Convoy, which could take another 24-48 hrs.

Local law enforcement encourages people to stay put and only travel when necessary. Do not attempt to move any utility lines. Please remove debris to the curb area and do not put debris in the streets.

Van Wert County Health Dept has been making contact with subscribers to their internet service called "Saving Minutes". This service is a web based list of persons in the Van Wert area that are a health risk in the event of some type of wide spread emergency situation. Those who think they may qualify should enroll at www.vanwertcountyhealth.org