When a severe storm is on the radar, our work begins well before the storm starts as we track incoming weather to keep a close eye on parts of our service territory that may be affected. When major storms damage power lines, we work hard to return power to the greatest number of customers as quickly, safely and efficiently as possible.
Follow these tips to stay safe and informed during severe weather:
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Be ready for outages by assembling an emergency kit with the following items long before bad weather is on its way:
- Flashlights and fresh batteries
- Portable cell phone charging bank
- Battery-powered radios or televisions
- Drinking/cooking water
- Portable heater (oil or gas)
- Camping equipment such as sleeping bags, camp stoves and lanterns
- Canned goods and a manual can opener
Stay in the Know
You can sign up for alerts at AEPOhio.com/Alerts to receive email and text messages or download our mobile app to check outage status and restoration information. Customers can also report outages by visiting AEPOhio.com or by calling 1-800-672-2231.
Stay Away, Stay Alive
Stay away from all downed lines, sparking equipment or debris they may touch. Any downed wires should be treated as live and dangerous because they carry an electric current that can cause serious or even fatal injuries. If you encounter a fallen wire, keep yourself and others away, and call 911 and AEP Ohio immediately. Click here to learn what to do if power lines land on your car.
Remember, Safety First
When the lights go out, remember to unplug electronics and appliances to protect them when the power is restored. Never operate lanterns, heaters, fuel-fired stoves or burn charcoal without proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fire. Also, let our crews know if you’re using a generator — this protects you and our line workers as they work to restore power.
Visit AEPOhio.com/Safety for more info and tips.
