When the lights go out, AES Ohio has two objectives: getting the power back on as soon as possible and keeping everyone safe.
Before an outage
When severe weather is in the forecast, AES Ohio adjusts staffing to ensure we are prepared to respond if outages occur. If the lights go out, our teams work around the clock to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. Customers can also take steps to be prepared for severe weather and possible outages.
Build a kit
- Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies to help you during the outage.
- We have a checklist to help you get started. Learn more
Make a plan
- Severe weather doesn't plan ahead, but you can. Do you know what you would do or where you could go if you lose power for an extended period of time? Ready.gov has step-by-step worksheets to help you prepare. Get started
- Does someone in your home have a special medical condition? It's critical to have an emergency backup plan. AES Ohio will note medical conditions on customers' accounts, be we cannot guarantee priority restoration. Ready.gov has resources to help you make an emergency plan for special medical needs. Learn more
- Unplug electronic devices or use surge protectors or "inline” uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for sensitive/critical equipment.
Be informed
- Bookmark the AES Ohio Outage Center on your mobile device for quick access to report outages and get receive on our outage map.
- The American Red Cross and FEMA offer mobile apps to help you stay informed during emergencies.
During an outage
- Don't rely on your neighbors to report an outage in your neighborhood. Always report power outages to AES Ohio.
- Be on the lookout for downed power lines. If you see downed lines, STAY AWAY! Keep kids and animals away until crews can make the area safe. Read more
- Make sure AES Ohio has the best phone number to reach you immediately. Update your phone number online
- Check your circuit breaker. If you do not have electricity in part of your house, you could have blown a fuse or tripped a circuit breaker. If your neighbors have lights, please take a moment to check your breaker. The problem could be inside your residence and require calling an electrician.
- Check to see if elderly family members or neighbors need help. If there is a health problem or concern, seek medical attention immediately.
- Allow crews to work safely. If you see crews in your neighborhood, please do not approach them or their work zones. They need to focus their attention on their technical and hazardous work to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
- Make sure your electric stove is off. If a burner is on and goes unnoticed after the power is restored, it could cause a fire.
- Don't run electrical cords from a neighbor's home.
- If using a portable generator, be sure to follow the instructions in the operator's manual and allow for proper ventilation.
- Keep your fridge and freezer closed to help preserve food longer.