EAST PALESTINE — East Palestine officials issued a warning to residents through the East Palestine Information page on social media Friday regarding someone going door to door in the village apparently promising monetary help.

“We have received reports that an unknown person is going around the community, door to door, promising money and potentially getting personal information from residents,” the post addressed to East Palestine residents said.

“This person is not employed by Norfolk Southern (NS). NS are only handling residents at the assistance center with the exception of scheduled meetings with any residents who are confined to their residence due to disability,” the report said.

Residents were told “should someone come to your home claiming to be a representative from NS, please call the police department at 330-426-4341 and do not give anyone you do not know your personal information.”

The Norfolk Southern Assistance Center is located at Abundant Life Fellowship church, state Route 46, New Waterford, and will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday while there is a community need.

During a press conference Thursday, Columbiana County Emergency Management Agency Director Peggy Clark said she was told the center may be open another three weeks.

The number to call is 1-800-230-7049.

Residents should bring with them their driver’s license or other government-issued identification, and Social Security card; proof of residency within the evacuation zone (e.g. current utility bill, etc.); for minors residing in the household, proof of dependency (e.g. Social Security card); and receipts for any expenses incurred while evacuated from home.

During the recent press conference, village officials, including the mayor, fire chief, and Clark warned residents to be wary and to check references and the Better Business Bureau regarding cleaning companies and other contractors offering their services.