Strong gusts can create serious electrical hazards—know what to do and how to prepare.
With high winds forecast this afternoon and gusts up to 50 mph, along with subfreezing temperatures expected this weekend, it’s important to make safety first and prepare for potential impacts.
Downed Power Lines Are Extremely Dangerous
High winds can bring down trees, branches and power lines. If you encounter any electrical hazards:
- Always assume downed power lines are live.
Even if a line appears inactive, it may still be energized and extremely dangerous. - Stay at least 30 feet away from downed lines and anything they are touching. Keep children, pets and others well back.
- Call OUC immediately to report a downed power line at (407) 423-9018.
Branches that are hanging, leaning or touching power lines also pose a serious safety risk and can cause outages for you and your neighborhood. Please report these conditions to OUC before they create larger problems.
If You Experience a Power Outage Due to Downed Power Lines
Report outages as quickly as possible so crews can respond safely and efficiently:
- Text “OUT” to 69682
- Report online through your myOUC account
- Call (407) 423-9018
Prepare Your Property Before Winds Increase
Taking a few steps now can help reduce damage and safety risks:
- Bring movable items inside, such as patio furniture, grills, potted plants, garbage cans and decorations.
- Secure items that cannot be moved by anchoring or tying them down.
- Clear your yard of loose debris, toys, branches or rocks that could become airborne in strong winds.
Please continue to stay safe as Central Florida experiences historic low temperatures and the potential for high winds this weekend. Staying alert and prepared helps protect you, your family and your neighborhood.