As South Florida enters its six-month hurricane season, the Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) is reminding residents that preparation is essential, stressing that storms are not a matter of “if, but when.”
The utility says both longtime residents and newcomers should take time now to develop a hurricane emergency plan, assemble supplies and secure their homes before any storm threatens the region.
Planning ahead for emergencies
FPL advises residents to first determine whether their home or business is located in a flood or evacuation zone and to review local evacuation routes in advance. The company also encourages households to consider backup power options or relocation plans if a storm warning is issued.
Drivers are urged to keep fuel tanks at least half full throughout the season, while electric vehicle owners should aim to maintain a charge between 50% and 80% as part of their readiness strategy.
Residents with medical needs that depend on electricity are encouraged to contact local emergency management offices and explore designation under FPL’s medically essential service programme.
Building a hurricane emergency kit
FPL recommends that every household prepare a basic emergency kit containing non-perishable food, bottled water, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and essential medications.
The utility also advises including phone chargers, portable power banks and waterproof storage for important documents such as insurance policies, health records, identification documents and emergency contact lists. A recent copy of the household’s FPL bill is also recommended for reference.
Securing the home before a storm
Homeowners are urged to install approved hurricane shutters or use plywood to protect windows and doors. Outdoor furniture and loose items should be moved indoors, while valuables should be secured and kept away from windows.
FPL also advises residents to unplug unnecessary electronics and set refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings ahead of potential outages.
The company strongly warns against attempting to trim trees or vegetation near power lines without qualified professionals, noting that improper work near electrical infrastructure can be dangerous. Residents are also reminded to maintain at least a 10-foot distance from overhead power lines when using ladders or tools.
Safety after the storm
After a hurricane passes, FPL cautions residents against using portable generators improperly. Generators should always be operated outdoors and never connected directly to a home’s electrical system, as this can cause backfeeding and pose serious risks to utility workers and the public.
Residents are also urged to avoid downed power lines, flooded areas and debris that may conceal electrical hazards.
Staying informed during restoration
FPL encourages customers to bookmark its website and save its outage reporting line, 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243), for quick access during emergencies. Updates on storm conditions and restoration efforts are shared through local news outlets and the company’s social media channels, including @insideFPL.
FPL says it conducts year-round storm preparation and is urging all Floridians to take proactive steps now to ensure safety and readiness throughout the season.
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