GAHANNA, Ohio, September 23, 2022 – September is National Preparedness Month. Follow these simple tips to help keep you and your family safe and connected in the event of an emergency.
Outline Your Guide
Create a detailed plan of action outlining your step-by-step approach in the event of severe weather or disaster. Identify a safe area, such as a basement or storm shelter, and decide now what you’ll do if there’s an extended power outage. Talk with your friends and family to make sure everyone is on the same page and that all details are included in your plan.
Build a Simple Emergency Kit
Stock up on supplies in the event that everyone must shelter in your home. Take an inventory of the resources used on a regular basis within your household and consider the specific needs of each person living there—including your pets. Build easy-access kits that you and your loved ones can take on the go if you need to evacuate the area in a hurry.
Create Safety Nets
Make sure you’re connected to local emergency alert systems to stay updated as situations can change fast. Consider insurance coverage that is aligned with high-risk situations in your area. If possible, reinforce the exterior and interior of your home to protect against storms and other environmental hazards. These extra precautions can make all the difference for you and your family in an emergency.
Be sure to download the AEP Ohio mobile app and update your contact information at AEPOhio.com/Account to stay informed when it comes to power outages.
Keep Your Kids in the Know
When it comes to handling an emergency, communication is key. Make sure that your kids are fully equipped with the information they need to know in the event of a disaster and what to do if you become separated. Comfort them with the knowledge that there is nothing to be afraid of because you’re preparing now.
Remember, Safety First
If the power goes out, remember to unplug electronics and appliances to protect them when the power is restored. Never operate lanterns, heaters, generators, fuel-fired stoves or burn charcoal without proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.
Also, let us know if you’re using a generator — this helps protect you and our lineworkers as they work to restore power.
“Emergencies and severe weather can strike unexpectedly, and we want to be sure our customers know how to respond and are prepared,” said AEP Ohio Customer Experience Manager Jay Garrett. “We encourage you to practice these tips with your loved ones and make sure you have a plan in place so that you can stay safe when the unexpected happens.”
For more information and resources, visit Ready.gov.
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About AEP Ohio
AEP Ohio is based in Gahanna, Ohio, and is a unit of American Electric Power. AEP Ohio provides electricity to 1.5 million customers. News and information about AEP Ohio can be found at AEPOhio.com.
American Electric Power, based in Columbus, Ohio, is powering a cleaner, brighter energy future for its customers and communities. AEP’s approximately 16,700 employees operate and maintain the nation’s largest electricity transmission system and more than 224,000 miles of distribution lines to safely deliver reliable and affordable power to 5.5 million regulated customers in 11 states. AEP also is one of the nation’s largest electricity producers with approximately 31,000 megawatts of diverse generating capacity, including more than 7,100 megawatts of renewable energy. The company’s plans include growing its renewable generation portfolio to approximately 50% of total capacity by 2030. AEP is on track to reach an 80% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from 2000 levels by 2030 and has committed to achieving net zero by 2050. AEP is recognized consistently for its focus on sustainability, community engagement, and diversity, equity and inclusion. AEP’s family of companies includes utilities AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana, east Texas and the Texas Panhandle). AEP also owns AEP Energy, which provides innovative competitive energy solutions nationwide. For more information, visit aep.com.