Storm Preparations

What can FPL customers do to prepare before the storm? | What can customers do during and after a storm? Here are some tips | How does FPL know who’s without power and when should I call? | As a customer, what can I do after a storm and where can I turn for information?

What can FPL customers do to prepare before the storm?

• Local emergency operations officials urge residents to prepare to be self sufficient for at least 14 days. Keep a battery-operated radio with you and a two-week supply of fresh batteries. A battery-operated radio may be the only way you will receive emergency public information during a disaster.
• Have your FPL account number and our phone number (1-800-4-OUTAGE) readily available in case you need to call us. With your account number, you will be able to quickly receive information through our automated system.
• If your preparation plan includes the operation of a portable generator in the event of an outage at your home, after the storm has passed be sure to set it up outside and connect appliances directly to it. Please do not wire your generator directly to your breaker or fuse box, because the power you generate may flow back into power lines and cause injuries.

What can customers do during and after a storm? Here are some tips:

• When winds reach 30 mph or flooding is significant, stay out of harm’s way. At FPL, we care about our employees, and we insist they too remain safe, so we suspend work in the field until conditions improve.
• Consider every power line energized. Stay away from downed lines, flooding and debris. Don’t walk in standing water and don’t venture out in the dark because you might not see a power line that could still be energized and dangerous.

How does FPL know who’s without power and when should I call?

• Right after a storm, we’ll know if large power lines have been damaged and you’re without power. Stay tuned to local radio, TV and newspapers for specific reports on FPL’s progress in assessing and repairing damage to the electrical system in your area.
• If your neighborhood gets power back after a storm -- but you’re still without power -- then please call us at 1-800-4-OUTAGE. Please have your account number available when you call and an automated system will record your outage information.

As a customer, what can I do after a storm and where can I turn for information?

• Before you call to report an outage, check all circuit breakers or fuses to help determine if your service outage might be the result of a household problem.
• If you have significant water damage in your home that might make it unsafe, call a licensed electrician for advice.
• Visually inspect the area outside your home near the meter. If the meter or any of the piping and wires on the wall of your home or office is gone or look damaged, call an electrician.
• If no problems are apparent, FPL will re-connect your service or assist in determining whether you have a household problem.
• Visit www.FPL.com for our Storm Center pre- and post-storm customer tips, Storm FAQs and – when events occur -- news of storm restoration and maps.