WAUSAU (WAOW) -
Three WPS workers from Wausau and one from Stevens Point are packing their bags for New Jersey.
They'll help victims of Superstorm Sandy who are still without heat and hot water.
"I would go no matter what just because that's what we do. You know, we got to help out and keep the people warm and with hot water. You know, stuff that you don't think about every day," said Jake Janis, WPS Mechanic.
"I'm pretty excited to be going there. It should be interesting," said Mark Kopetzky, WPS Mechanic.
Workers will be relighting furnaces, inspecting heating appliances and checking for gas leaks.
WPS officials say it's rare for crews to assist others outside the state.
"This is the first time in about 25 years or so that we can remember that we've actually gone outside of the state with our gas crews to assist in restoration efforts," said Kelly Zagrzebski, WPS Community Relations.
WPS officials expect the crews to be gone for at least two weeks, which is a long time for them to be away from their families.
"I actually told my wife this morning that I was actually already starting to get a little homesick," said Kopetzky.
Janis says the reality of leaving hasn't set in yet.
Crews will meet in Oshkosh Saturday morning before heading to New Jersey where they plan to make people feel more at home during the holidays.
