Severe weather happens year-round. Tornadoes, hurricanes and other
storms can seriously damage power lines and other electrical equipment. Storm
damage causes dangers that lurk after a storm has passed. We encourage you to
be aware of and prepared for those dangers.
When you see power lines on the ground following a storm, stay away, and
warn others to stay away. Report down power lines or unsafe equipment by
calling 911 or FPL at 1-800-4OUTAGE if you feel the situation presents a clear
and imminent danger to you or others. “Wire down” calls are intended to
safeguard the public from a life threatening situation. FPL emergency crews
answering these calls will not restore power, only make the area safe. If you
have already reported the wire down, your call has already generated a report
and there is no need to report it again.
Lines do not have to be arcing or sparking to be live. Any utility wire,
including telephone or cable lines sagging or down could be in contact with an energized
power line making them very dangerous, so stay away from all of them.
Be alert to the possibility that tree limbs or debris may hide an
electrical hazard. A downed power line can energize things around it, such as
chain link fences and metal culverts (piping).
Keep in mind that a line that’s indeed “dead” could become energized
during power restoration efforts or improper use of generators.
If you are driving and come upon a downed power line, stay in your
vehicle, warn others to stay away and contact emergency personnel or the
electric utility. Never drive over a downed line. It could cause poles or other
equipment to come crashing down.
If you are in a car that has come in contact with a downed power line,
stay in your vehicle. Wait until the utility has arrived and de-energized the
line. Warn others not to approach the car. If you must leave your car, only in
the case of fire, jump free from the car and hop away from it with both feet
together.
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