Don't wait for a hurricane to arrive. Start your preparations today. Preparing in advance allows you to gather critical items like food, water, medication, and emergency kits before forecasted storms lead to shortages or increased demand that could create challenges in getting the supplies you need. Understand the risks associated with hurricanes and get ready by securing multiple channels for weather updates and alerts. Make sure you know the appropriate actions to take before, during, and after a storm.

During storm events, the Lakeland Electric Emergency Operations Center works nonstop, with key staff ensuring they monitor the weather and evaluate its impact on our infrastructure and equipment. Expect power outages and dangerous conditions during a storm, as well as limited response efforts until it is safe for crews to start restoration work.

Following a hurricane, always place safety as your top priority. It may take several days to restore services and clear roads, and even months to remove all debris from neighborhoods. Please be patient and cooperate with instructions and requests from the authorities. We can't guarantee that things will be fixed overnight, but we can guarantee that we won't rest until they are. When needed, Lakeland Electric requests aid from other utilities to help us restore power. Crews work extended hours until every home that is safe to receive electricity has electricity.

1. If you're using a portable generator, carefully read and adhere to all manufacturer instructions. Ensure it’s set up outdoors—never inside your home or garage—and connect your appliances directly to the generator. Avoid wiring the generator directly into your breaker or fuse box, as the power generated could backfeed into power lines, posing a serious risk of injury. For additional safety tips regarding generators and post-storm guidance, please visit our generator safety page in our Hurricane Guide.

2. Do not travel until it is deemed safe to do so.

3. If you encounter dangerous or hazardous conditions, call 911 immediately. To report downed power lines or damage to Lakeland Electric's poles, wires, or transformers, contact Lakeland Electric at (863) 834-9535.

4. Stay at a safe distance from downed power lines and areas filled with floodwaters and debris, which could be concealing hidden power lines. Avoid touching anything that may be in contact with a downed power line.

5. If you notice leaks from your roof or windows, be aware that water in your walls or ceiling can contact electrical wiring. Immediately switch off your circuit breakers, disconnect all plugged-in electrical appliances, and turn off any wall switches. Remember never to stand in water while operating switches or unplugging electrical devices.

6. Instead of candles, opt for battery-operated flashlights and lanterns for illumination.

7. Exercise caution when using grills, portable stoves, or other emergency cooking equipment.

8. Perform emergency repairs only when it is safe to do so. Prioritize repairs that prevent further damage or looting, but ensure that these repairs can be conducted safely.