Lakewood Residents Increase Generator Permits Amidst Persistent Power Outages
Lakewood, Ohio, is experiencing a significant increase in applications for generator permits as residents seek solutions to repeated power outages. Fire officials in Lakewood are urging residents to engage licensed contractors for the installation and operation of these generators, emphasizing safety guidelines. Lucas Yousko, a Lakewood resident, invested in a portable generator after frequent outages threatened food storage and disrupted gatherings at his home. Despite FirstEnergy's efforts to improve the electrical system, including the installation of a new generator and another expected by year-end, the city continues to see a rise in generator permit requests. Residents like Yousko have reported being without power for days at a time, highlighting the severity of the issue. The Lakewood Fire Department's Fire Marshal, Ryan Birth, stressed the importance of proper installation to prevent risks to both residents and electrical workers.