KUA Prepares for Tropical Storm Nicole

In anticipation of a potential impact from Tropical Storm Nicole, Kissimmee Utility Authority has activated its Emergency Operations Plan.— In anticipation of a potential impact from Tropical Storm Nicole, Kissimmee Utility Authority has activated its Emergency Operations Plan.The utility is currently operating at Alert Level 3 and will advance to Alert Level 4 once the storm is within 24 hours of impacting its 85-square-mile service territory in Osceola County.

Once the storm passes, our crews will begin their damage assessment analysis to determine if additional assistance is needed.Nicole may be capable of causing power outages and flooding. In addition, restoration may be hampered by flooding, downed trees, high winds, or other obstacles. KUA crews are prepared to work long hours after the storm passes, restoring service to customers as quickly and as safely as possible.Customers who experience a power outage can report it quickly by texting the word “out” to 877-582-7700; This is the fastest way to notify KUA about an outage. After severe weather, KUA crews restore power by repairing transmission lines, substations, and primary distribution lines.

Once the main power lines are repaired, crews focus on individual customer outages. KUA’s real-time outage map can be viewed at kua.com/map.KUA has developed a comprehensive storm preparedness guide to assist residents with storm preparations. The 40-page handbook can be downloaded from the utility’s website at kua.com/storm.Kissimmee Utility Authority recommends the following safety precautions ahead of the storm:

• Disconnect sensitive electrical equipment in the event of a surge when power is restored.
• Consider turning your refrigerator or freezer to its coldest setting to keep your food fresh longer should power go out.
• Keep your hurricane kit handy.
• If you own a swimming pool, turn off all pumps and filters. If you don’t, water from the approaching storm can damage them.
• Never rely on candles, kerosene lamps, or other flammable lighting materials. Use glow sticks, flashlights, or battery-powered lamps instead.
• Complete any laundry or other household chores to ensure your family will be more comfortable if you have to spend time at home without electricity.
• If you own a generator, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Place generators at least 20 feet away from your home, downwind away from open doors, windows, eaves, and vents.
• Before using your generator, disconnect your source of power.
• Do not touch fallen or low-hanging wires or anything that comes in contact with them. A seemingly harmless wire may still be energized. Also, stay away from puddles where downed lines may have landed.
• Please call KUA only to report downed power lines. For emergencies, call 911.