Dear AEP Ohio Customer:

The National Weather Service in Wilmington, Ohio is predicting a Hazardous Weather Outlook for several counties in Ohio. This threat includes the potential for heavy rainfall, large hail, damaging winds and possibly isolated tornadoes. It is anticipated that this storm system will enter the area late this afternoon and early evening.

Severe weather could mean possible power outages. At AEP Ohio, we continue to monitor the storm's path and are preparing resources to be ready to respond once the threat has passed. AEP Ohio encourages its customers to be prepared as well and to keep these tips in mind:

Never touch a downed utility wire, no matter how harmless it looks. All downed wires should be considered energized and dangerous. Keep children and pets away from downed lines and anything that the lines may contact, i.e. fences, swings and lawn furnishings. These items can conduct electricity. If you see a downed wire, please contact AEP Ohio at 1-800-672-2231.

If you intend to use a portable generator, do not plug the generator into your electric box and plug only essential appliances directly into the generator. Be sure to follow the manufacturers' instructions. If not handled properly, portable generators can "backfeed" electricity up the power line and risk the lives of repair workers and the public. Portable generators should be installed by a licensed electrician to ensure it meets national, state and local electric codes.

If you experience an outage, please let us know by contacting our Customer Solution Center at 1-800-672-2231 or by entering the information on our website at www.aepohio.com. Current and updated outage information is available on our website. Customers also can follow our progress on Twitter and Facebook.

AEP Ohio encourages its customers to make a plan and be prepared for potential emergencies. Click on this link http://www.redcross.org/prepare/location/home-family to learn more about making a plan and preparing your home and family.
If you would like more tips and information on how to prepare for a potential outage, please visit our website at www.aepohio.com.

Please be assured we take the threat of this storm seriously and are communicating with other utilities to determine available resources and learn the impact this storm is having already. We appreciate your patience and cooperation.

The AEP Ohio Team