AEP Ohio: Customers should prepare for multi-day outage - 10TV

Thousands of power outages reported in Ohio due to high winds | 10tv.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio — AEP Ohio said power restoration efforts may continue for several days due to the extent of damage from strong winds on Saturday. Customers are asked to prepare for a possible multi-day outage. More than 78,000 AEP customers are without power as of 11 p.m. as strong winds continue to move through Ohio.

View AEP Ohio's Outage Map here. Wind gusts of up to 60 mph and saturated ground have brought down numerous trees, poles and power lines throughout the state. In a Facebook post, AEP Ohio said in part, "Restoration efforts have been hampered for much of the afternoon because of the severity of the winds which have prevented lineworkers from using buckets and other equipment that aid in speedier restoration." Estimated restoration times for impacted areas are expected to be ready by early Sunday evening. According to AEP Ohio, crews will work through the night and for as long as it takes to restore all customers. AEP has offered the following tips on how to stay prepared and handle a possible outage:

- Put together an emergency kit that includes non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a radio, first aid kit, medications, portable chargers, extra cash and maps of the surrounding area.
- Keep away from downed wires and report hazards through the AEP Ohio mobile app, call 911 and AEP Ohio at (800) 672-2231.
- Do not attempt to remove tree limbs or debris within 10 feet of a power line.
- Limbs, leaves and other objects moved by the wind and ice build-up could hide downed wires. Investigate your surroundings before trying to clean up any debris.
- Notify AEP Ohio if you’re using a generator. This protects you and our lineworkers as they work to restore power.
- Never operate lanterns, heaters or fuel-fired stoves without proper ventilation.
- Unplug major appliances to protect them when power is restored.
- Refuel heaters, lamps and generators outside and away from any flames or sparks. Wipe up spilled fuel immediately.
- Never burn charcoal indoors — it releases poisonous carbon monoxide.
- For the health and safety of AEP Ohio crews, please stay at least 6 feet away from our employees, vehicles and equipment.

Doppler 10 Weather Resources