Forecasters have indicated that a continuous line of storms may stretch eastward throughout Ohio late tonight and early tomorrow. These storms likely will include high winds that may cause extensive power outages.
The Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC) advises utility consumers throughout the state to be prepared in case they lose power during the weather emergency.
If your power should go out, but you have internet access, you should notify your utility through its online system. For some utilities, the online systems are the fastest ways to process outage information. If you do not have access to the internet, then you should call your utility at the numbers below. The following links can be accessed to report a power outage:
- AEP Ohio: https://www.aepohio.com/outages/report/, (800) 672-2231
- FirstEnergy: https://www.firstenergycorp.com/outages_help/Report_Power_Outages.html, 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877).
- Duke Energy: http://www.duke-energy.com/ohio/outages/current.asp, 800-543-5599
- Dayton Power and Light: http://www.dpandl.com/customer-service/outage-center/report-an-outage/, 877-468-8243
OCC offers the following recommendations for consumers for staying safe during a prolonged power outage:
- Monitor your and others’ health (especially for the elderly) in hot and humid weather;
- Unplug electronics until service is restored to avoid a potential power surge;
- If you are running a generator, please disconnect it when repair crews are at work in your area, for their protection;
- Stay away from downed wires, which can be still connected to electricity, and report them and other damage to utility equipment immediately to the local electric company;
- Stay away from flooded basements, even if the power is off;
- Use a battery-powered lantern instead of candles, which may present a danger because of open flames. And, locate extra batteries for flashlights and portable radios;
- Consumers who are on their utility’s critical care list should review the options and responsibilities of the electric utility. Consumers who are not on the critical care list, but who need electricity for life support devices, should contact their utility to learn more about this option.
Food safety tips:
- Limit the number of times the refrigerator or freezer is opened and place perishable foods in a cooler packed with ice;
- Stock foods that do not require cooking or refrigeration;
- Consult with the U.S. Department of Agriculture for additional food and water safety tips.
More information about what to do in a power emergency is available on OCC’s website,
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