What You Should Know Before the Power Is Turned On

Before power is restored

• Make sure ovens, stoves and toasters are turned off.
• If you were cooking when the power went out, these appliances may still be turned on, and may be a fire hazard.
• Turn off air conditioners and any sensitive electronic equipment to protect them from surges.

Looks may be deceiving

Although your house may look safe, it may not be safe to receive power. Here are a few simple steps to help you and your family stay safe and avoid injury after the storm passes.

• If your roof or windows leak, then there may be water in your walls and ceiling, which may come in contact with electrical wiring. Be sure to follow these important safety tips.
  • First and foremost, turn off your circuit breakers, disconnect all electrical appliances that are still plugged in and turn off all wall switches.
  • Do not stand in water when operating switches or unplugging anything.
  • Depending on the damage, you may need a licensed electrical contractor to survey your house and make repairs.
• If you have overhead power lines running to your home and you see any damage from the connection on the house to the power line, you will need to call an electrician for repairs before FPL is able to reconnect your service. If the meter is damaged, call FPL and we will make the repair.
• If your home is powered by underground lines, look at the meter and see if it is damaged. If it is, call FPL to schedule a repair.

Don't make a close inspection

Do not make a close inspection of your wiring or other electrical equipment. Let an electrical contractor perform this job.

Use a licensed contractor

If you do call a contractor, make sure that whomever you hire is licensed by the state. Ask to see a license and a Certificate of Competency (CC) number.