HURRICANE GUIDEOrlando Utilities Commission

500 South Orange AvenueOrlando, Florida 32801

Phone: 407.423.9100 Fax: 407.236.9616www.ouc.com

Frequently Asked Questions 2 0 0 5

TABLE OF CONTENTS

COMMISSIONERS

Central Floridians will always remember the hurricane season of 2004.The lessons our community learned are vitally important as we preparefor whatever type of storm season awaits us this year.

Experience from last year’s storms proved there is no substitute forpreparation. So at OUC, we have been busy reviewing last year’sresponse and fine tuning our preparations.

While we hope for an uneventful hurricane season, I urge you toreview your personal hurricane plans now. To help you get started,

OUC has prepared this hurricane guide to answer frequently asked questions.

The following pages contain important information about hurricane preparedness, powerrestoration priorities and much more. After you’ve updated your hurricane plan, store thisguide with other important papers so you can retrieve it quickly if Central Florida fallsunder a hurricane watch this season.

Should an outage occur following a hurricane, your correct phone number must be on filefor you to use our automated system to hear estimated service restoration schedules. To verify that OUC has your correct information, please call 407.423.9018 or visit ourWeb site at www.ouc.com.

In addition to this guide, OUC employees will be conducting neighborhood hurricane preparedness meetings throughout our service area. At these meetings, engineers, linemen and customer service representatives will answer customer questions and provide valuable safety information.

For updated information and news, go online to www.ouc.com. Make this your one-stop location for the latest news throughout the hurricane season, as well as interactive features suchas audio safety tips you can download to your personal music player or PDA.

At OUC, we will continue to prepare for the worst — but we will hope for the best.

Sincerely,

Ken Ksionek

LETTER FROM KEN KSIONEKGeneral Manager and CEO, OUC — The Reliable One

Buddy DyerCity of Orlando Mayor/

Commissioner

Tico Perez, Esq.Immediate Past President

Lonnie C. BellFirst Vice President

Katie PortaSecond Vice President

Tommy Boroughs, Esq.President

1 Letter from Ken Ksionek, OUC General Manager and CEO

2 Why Does My Neighbor Have Power and I Don’t?

4 Where Does My Power Come From?

6 How Can I Prepare My Home?

8 What Can My Family Do to Prepare Now?

10 What Can I Expect During a Storm?

12 The Storm Is Over. Now What Do I Do?

14 What Is a Hurricane?

16 Hurricane Facts

18 Hurricane Tracking Map

20 OUC Tree Trimming Services

22 Letter from Buddy Dyer, Mayor of Orlando

24 City of Orlando

25 Personal Checklist

TABLE OF CONTENTS

COMMISSIONERS

Central Floridians will always remember the hurricane season of 2004.The lessons our community learned are vitally important as we preparefor whatever type of storm season awaits us this year.

Experience from last year’s storms proved there is no substitute forpreparation. So at OUC, we have been busy reviewing last year’sresponse and fine tuning our preparations.

While we hope for an uneventful hurricane season, I urge you toreview your personal hurricane plans now. To help you get started,

OUC has prepared this hurricane guide to answer frequently asked questions.

The following pages contain important information about hurricane preparedness, powerrestoration priorities and much more. After you’ve updated your hurricane plan, store thisguide with other important papers so you can retrieve it quickly if Central Florida fallsunder a hurricane watch this season.

Should an outage occur following a hurricane, your correct phone number must be on filefor you to use our automated system to hear estimated service restoration schedules. To verify that OUC has your correct information, please call 407.423.9018 or visit ourWeb site at www.ouc.com.

In addition to this guide, OUC employees will be conducting neighborhood hurricane preparedness meetings throughout our service area. At these meetings, engineers, linemen and customer service representatives will answer customer questions and provide valuable safety information.

For updated information and news, go online to www.ouc.com. Make this your one-stop location for the latest news throughout the hurricane season, as well as interactive features suchas audio safety tips you can download to your personal music player or PDA.

At OUC, we will continue to prepare for the worst — but we will hope for the best.

Sincerely,

Ken Ksionek

LETTER FROM KEN KSIONEKGeneral Manager and CEO, OUC — The Reliable One

Buddy DyerCity of Orlando Mayor/

Commissioner

Tico Perez, Esq.Immediate Past President

Lonnie C. BellFirst Vice President

Katie PortaSecond Vice President

Tommy Boroughs, Esq.President

1 Letter from Ken Ksionek, OUC General Manager and CEO

2 Why Does My Neighbor Have Power and I Don’t?

4 Where Does My Power Come From?

6 How Can I Prepare My Home?

8 What Can My Family Do to Prepare Now?

10 What Can I Expect During a Storm?

12 The Storm Is Over. Now What Do I Do?

14 What Is a Hurricane?

16 Hurricane Facts

18 Hurricane Tracking Map

20 OUC Tree Trimming Services

22 Letter from Buddy Dyer, Mayor of Orlando

24 City of Orlando

25 Personal Checklist

WHY DOES MY NEIGHBOR HAVE POWERAND I DON’T?OUC Restores Service in Orderly, Safe Fashion

2 3

Check your weatherhead connection if you are still without power but

your neighborhood has been restored. The weatherhead is where the

electric lines meet the electric meter at the side of your home. The

customer is responsible for devices like the weatherhead for

overhead services, the buried conduit for underground services and

the meter base. Damage to these devices will need to be repaired by

a licensed electrician before OUC can restore power. OUC is only

responsible for repairing the service line and electric meter.

After a major storm, there are several reasons you might not have power

while your neighbor does:

• You may be on a different feeder line or transformer

than nearby neighbors.

• The service line to your home may have

been damaged.

• Check that your main breaker is on

where power lines connect to

your home.

• You may need to repair your

home before you can be

connected.

OUC will be working to restore

all customers in a timely manner

according to our established

restoration guidelines. As a

homeowner, check your

weatherhead connection if you

are still without power but your

neighborhood has been restored.

In the event of damage, OUC is only

responsible for repairs to the service line and

electric meter. Please see the box on page 3 for

more information on damage to your home.

Restoration priorities. OUC’s power restoration plan ensures our community’s mostvital needs — such as hospitals and police and fire stations — are met first.

QUESTION: WHO GETS POWER TURNED ON FIRST?

If a hurricane causes large-scale power outages, OUC immediately begins toevaluate the damage to its electric system. Once the evaluation is complete —and weather conditions permit — OUC begins restoring power to critical areassuch as hospitals, police and fire stations, and other emergency facilities.

Next, we make repairs that will restore power to the largest number of customers in the quickest manner possible. Finally, OUC repairs damagethat often affects only a few individual customers at each location.

QUESTION: ARE THERE OTHER USEFUL TIPS I SHOULD REMEMBER?

• Monitor local broadcast media, or call OUC’s hotline for Estimated RestorationTimes (407.823.9150) once OUC’s initial damage assessment is complete.

• Shut off electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you see frayed wiringor sparks when you restore power or if there is an odor of somethingburning but no visible fire.

• Be aware it is against the law and a violation of electrical codes to connectgenerators to your home's electrical circuits without the approved, automatic-interrupt devices.

• Make sure your generator is properly connected to your home’s electricalcircuits so you do not endanger line workers helping to restore power inyour area or create a fire hazard.

• Visit www.ouc.com for frequent updates on restoration efforts.

CHECK FOR DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME

WHY DOES MY NEIGHBOR HAVE POWERAND I DON’T?OUC Restores Service in Orderly, Safe Fashion

2 3

Check your weatherhead connection if you are still without power but

your neighborhood has been restored. The weatherhead is where the

electric lines meet the electric meter at the side of your home. The

customer is responsible for devices like the weatherhead for

overhead services, the buried conduit for underground services and

the meter base. Damage to these devices will need to be repaired by

a licensed electrician before OUC can restore power. OUC is only

responsible for repairing the service line and electric meter.

After a major storm, there are several reasons you might not have power

while your neighbor does:

• You may be on a different feeder line or transformer

than nearby neighbors.

• The service line to your home may have

been damaged.

• Check that your main breaker is on

where power lines connect to

your home.

• You may need to repair your

home before you can be

connected.

OUC will be working to restore

all customers in a timely manner

according to our established

restoration guidelines. As a

homeowner, check your

weatherhead connection if you

are still without power but your

neighborhood has been restored.

In the event of damage, OUC is only

responsible for repairs to the service line and

electric meter. Please see the box on page 3 for

more information on damage to your home.

Restoration priorities. OUC’s power restoration plan ensures our community’s mostvital needs — such as hospitals and police and fire stations — are met first.

QUESTION: WHO GETS POWER TURNED ON FIRST?

If a hurricane causes large-scale power outages, OUC immediately begins toevaluate the damage to its electric system. Once the evaluation is complete —and weather conditions permit — OUC begins restoring power to critical areassuch as hospitals, police and fire stations, and other emergency facilities.

Next, we make repairs that will restore power to the largest number of customers in the quickest manner possible. Finally, OUC repairs damagethat often affects only a few individual customers at each location.

QUESTION: ARE THERE OTHER USEFUL TIPS I SHOULD REMEMBER?

• Monitor local broadcast media, or call OUC’s hotline for Estimated RestorationTimes (407.823.9150) once OUC’s initial damage assessment is complete.

• Shut off electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you see frayed wiringor sparks when you restore power or if there is an odor of somethingburning but no visible fire.

• Be aware it is against the law and a violation of electrical codes to connectgenerators to your home's electrical circuits without the approved, automatic-interrupt devices.

• Make sure your generator is properly connected to your home’s electricalcircuits so you do not endanger line workers helping to restore power inyour area or create a fire hazard.

• Visit www.ouc.com for frequent updates on restoration efforts.

CHECK FOR DAMAGE TO YOUR HOME

54

WHERE DOES MY POWER COME FROM?Your Home is the Last Stop for Electricity

Understanding how power is delivered to your home or business is the

first step in understanding how power is restored following a hurricane.

(See pages 2-3 for Power Restoration Information.)

OUC’s electric distribution system works much like the human circulation

system. Just as blood flows from your heart through arteries in your chest,

shoulder and arm to get to your fingers, electricity does much the same to

get to your home. The chart below shows exactly how that process works.

Electricity flows from a power plant through high-voltage transmission

lines to reach OUC’s service area.

At substations, transformers reduce voltage and re-route electricity to

many main feeder lines (or circuits) that take power out into the

community. Each feeder line is protected by its own circuit breaker.

Lateral lines connected to main feeder lines route electricity through

smaller areas like neighborhoods and subdivisions.

Nearing the end of the line, transformers on individual poles reduce

voltage and distribute electricity to homes and businesses. Normally

one transformer services about four homes.

The electric connection at your house is the last stop for electricity. Here

individual service lines connect to your house. (See page 3 for more on

damage to your electric equipment.)

ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

54

WHERE DOES MY POWER COME FROM?Your Home is the Last Stop for Electricity

Understanding how power is delivered to your home or business is the

first step in understanding how power is restored following a hurricane.

(See pages 2-3 for Power Restoration Information.)

OUC’s electric distribution system works much like the human circulation

system. Just as blood flows from your heart through arteries in your chest,

shoulder and arm to get to your fingers, electricity does much the same to

get to your home. The chart below shows exactly how that process works.

Electricity flows from a power plant through high-voltage transmission

lines to reach OUC’s service area.

At substations, transformers reduce voltage and re-route electricity to

many main feeder lines (or circuits) that take power out into the

community. Each feeder line is protected by its own circuit breaker.

Lateral lines connected to main feeder lines route electricity through

smaller areas like neighborhoods and subdivisions.

Nearing the end of the line, transformers on individual poles reduce

voltage and distribute electricity to homes and businesses. Normally

one transformer services about four homes.

The electric connection at your house is the last stop for electricity. Here

individual service lines connect to your house. (See page 3 for more on

damage to your electric equipment.)

ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

While Hurricane Charley reminded us that we can’t

always predict what a hurricane will do or where it

will go, we can make sure that we’re prepared for the

worst-case scenario. Follow these guidelines to prepare

your home and your family as the storm approaches:

• Protect your windows with hurricane shutters or board up with plywood.

• Identify special medical needs (medicine that must be refrigerated,

equipment that requires electricity, etc.)

• Clear your patio and yard of lawn furniture, toys, potted plants and

other debris.

• Identify and locate nearest shelters: The Office of Emergency

Management will advise you on your nearest shelter in case of

an evacuation. Please keep in tune with the local media

through television, radio or the Internet.

• Use the OUC Tracking Map to track the progress of the

storm. (See Tracking Map on pages 18-19.)

HOW CAN I PREPARE MY HOME?Stay Informed during Hurricane Season

ARE YOU LEAVING?

• Turn off electrical power and

natural gas or propane tanks to

avoid fire, electrocution or

explosions.

• Plan an evacuation route and learn

safe routes inland.

• Be ready to drive 20-50 miles inland to

locate a safe place.

• Make arrangements for pets: Pets may

not be allowed into emergency shelters

for health and space reasons. Contact

your local humane society for information

on local animal shelters.

• Teach family members how and when to

turn off gas, electricity and water.

• Take cash, credit cards and important

documents.Orlando

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERSRemember to post emergency telephone numbers near telephones and take acopy with you if you are evacuating your home. Pick one out-of-state and onelocal friend or relative for family members to call if separated by disaster (it isoften easier to call out-of-state than within the affected area).

Medical & Safety Emergencies, Call: 9-1-1

OUC —The Reliable One Contact OUC —The Reliable One regarding electric and water utility issues at: Emergency Service Hotline — 407.823.9150.

City of OrlandoFor issues regarding wastewater and stormwaterin Orlando, call the City of Orlando at:Wastewater: 407.246.2213Stormwater Hotline: 407.246.2370.

Orange CountyFor issues regarding wastewater and stormwaterin Orange County, call the Orange County UtilitiesCustomer Service Department at 407.836.5515.

OUC —The Reliable Onewww.ouc.com

City of Orlandowww.cityoforlando.net

Orange Countywww.orangecountyfl.net

City of St. Cloudwww.stcloud.org

National Hurricane Centerwww.nhc.noaa.gov

National Weather Centerwww.nws.noaa.gov

Federal Emergency Management Agency www.fema.gov

The Weather Channelwww.weather.com

American Red Crosswww.redcross.org

7

KEY WEB SITES

6

Boarding up. Don’t bother withtape — to really protect yourwindows, your best bet is toboard them with plywood.

Power off. If you evacuate in advance of a hurricane, remember to turn your power off to avoid potential hazards.

While Hurricane Charley reminded us that we can’t

always predict what a hurricane will do or where it

will go, we can make sure that we’re prepared for the

worst-case scenario. Follow these guidelines to prepare

your home and your family as the storm approaches:

• Protect your windows with hurricane shutters or board up with plywood.

• Identify special medical needs (medicine that must be refrigerated,

equipment that requires electricity, etc.)

• Clear your patio and yard of lawn furniture, toys, potted plants and

other debris.

• Identify and locate nearest shelters: The Office of Emergency

Management will advise you on your nearest shelter in case of

an evacuation. Please keep in tune with the local media

through television, radio or the Internet.

• Use the OUC Tracking Map to track the progress of the

storm. (See Tracking Map on pages 18-19.)

HOW CAN I PREPARE MY HOME?Stay Informed during Hurricane Season

ARE YOU LEAVING?

• Turn off electrical power and

natural gas or propane tanks to

avoid fire, electrocution or

explosions.

• Plan an evacuation route and learn

safe routes inland.

• Be ready to drive 20-50 miles inland to

locate a safe place.

• Make arrangements for pets: Pets may

not be allowed into emergency shelters

for health and space reasons. Contact

your local humane society for information

on local animal shelters.

• Teach family members how and when to

turn off gas, electricity and water.

• Take cash, credit cards and important

documents.Orlando

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERSRemember to post emergency telephone numbers near telephones and take acopy with you if you are evacuating your home. Pick one out-of-state and onelocal friend or relative for family members to call if separated by disaster (it isoften easier to call out-of-state than within the affected area).

Medical & Safety Emergencies, Call: 9-1-1

OUC —The Reliable One Contact OUC —The Reliable One regarding electric and water utility issues at: Emergency Service Hotline — 407.823.9150.

City of OrlandoFor issues regarding wastewater and stormwaterin Orlando, call the City of Orlando at:Wastewater: 407.246.2213Stormwater Hotline: 407.246.2370.

Orange CountyFor issues regarding wastewater and stormwaterin Orange County, call the Orange County UtilitiesCustomer Service Department at 407.836.5515.

OUC —The Reliable Onewww.ouc.com

City of Orlandowww.cityoforlando.net

Orange Countywww.orangecountyfl.net

City of St. Cloudwww.stcloud.org

National Hurricane Centerwww.nhc.noaa.gov

National Weather Centerwww.nws.noaa.gov

Federal Emergency Management Agency www.fema.gov

The Weather Channelwww.weather.com

American Red Crosswww.redcross.org

7

KEY WEB SITES

6

Boarding up. Don’t bother withtape — to really protect yourwindows, your best bet is toboard them with plywood.

Power off. If you evacuate in advance of a hurricane, remember to turn your power off to avoid potential hazards.

WHAT CAN MY FAMILY DO TO PREPARE NOW?Make Plans, Assemble Emergency Kits Early

OUC PREFERRED CONTRACTOR NETWORK

OUC receives thousands of calls every year at our Customer Service Center from

customers needing the assistance of home repair and service professionals.

The OUC Preferred Contractor Network features:

• Contact data for listed contractors categorized by specialty.

• Standards of conduct and a Code of Ethics.

• Contractors referred on a rotational basis within each discipline.

• Customer rating and feedback mechanism.

• Easy and quick contractor search forms.

It doesn't matter if your need is big or small, something you need today or something

you're just thinking about. The home repair and service professionals of the

OUC Preferred Contractor Network are just a click away. Visit www.oucpcn.com

to find a contractor for your project.9

• Prepare a family plan, identifying meeting places, key phone numbersand responsibilities.

• Have a traditional phone that does not need electricity to operate.

• Stock up on hurricane supplies such as:

• Emergency food and water for three days.

• First aid kit and manual.

• Two-week supply of essential medicines.

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

• Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries.

• Non-electric can opener.

• Digital thermometer.

• Coolers and ice.

• Shelf-stable foods, such ascanned goods and powderedor boxed milk.

8

Hard at work. OUC restoration crews repair damage after Hurricane Charley.Early preparation is crucial to a good personal hurricane plan.

Tree professionals. Be sure to trim back dead or weak branches from trees around your home.Remember that only a professional should trim limbs near power lines. (See more Trimming Tips on page 4.)

WHAT CAN MY FAMILY DO TO PREPARE NOW?Make Plans, Assemble Emergency Kits Early

OUC PREFERRED CONTRACTOR NETWORK

OUC receives thousands of calls every year at our Customer Service Center from

customers needing the assistance of home repair and service professionals.

The OUC Preferred Contractor Network features:

• Contact data for listed contractors categorized by specialty.

• Standards of conduct and a Code of Ethics.

• Contractors referred on a rotational basis within each discipline.

• Customer rating and feedback mechanism.

• Easy and quick contractor search forms.

It doesn't matter if your need is big or small, something you need today or something

you're just thinking about. The home repair and service professionals of the

OUC Preferred Contractor Network are just a click away. Visit www.oucpcn.com

to find a contractor for your project.9

• Prepare a family plan, identifying meeting places, key phone numbersand responsibilities.

• Have a traditional phone that does not need electricity to operate.

• Stock up on hurricane supplies such as:

• Emergency food and water for three days.

• First aid kit and manual.

• Two-week supply of essential medicines.

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

• Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries.

• Non-electric can opener.

• Digital thermometer.

• Coolers and ice.

• Shelf-stable foods, such ascanned goods and powderedor boxed milk.

8

Hard at work. OUC restoration crews repair damage after Hurricane Charley.Early preparation is crucial to a good personal hurricane plan.

Tree professionals. Be sure to trim back dead or weak branches from trees around your home.Remember that only a professional should trim limbs near power lines. (See more Trimming Tips on page 4.)

After the flurry of activity to protect your family and home from a hurricane,

there’s often not much to do once it finally arrives other than to wait it

out. Here are some tips for when the hurricane makes landfall:

• Unless there is a life-threatening emergency, wait until after the storm to

contact OUC about your power outage. During the

first 24-48 hours after a storm, OUC assesses

damage to its system and throughout its

entire service area.

• Go to a safe room with few or

no windows at the center of the

structure, if possible.

• Monitor the news on

television or radio.

• Do not go outside or drive

around to “sight-see.”

1 0

QUESTION: I’M NOT SURE THAT MY TAP WATER IS SAFE.WHAT SHOULD I DO?

During the 2004 hurricane season, OUC water customers never experienced a

loss of water pressure and only a handful of customers received precautionary

boil-water notices. However, if there should be water issues following a

hurricane this year, please follow these guidelines:

• Have enough bottled water on hand to last several days — the American

Red Cross recommends one gallon of water per person per day.

• If you do not have bottled water and are not sure your tap water is safe, boil

the water vigorously (water should be bubbling and rolling) for 1-3 minutes.

• If you can't boil water, add 16 drops of newly purchased, unscented liquid

household bleach per gallon of water, stir it well, and then let the water

stand for 30 minutes before you use it. Note that using bleach will not

kill parasitic organisms.

• You also can use water-purifying tablets from your local pharmacy or

sporting goods store.

1 1

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING A STORM?When Weather Subsides, OUC Evaluates System Damage

KEEP YOUR FOOD SAFE

OUC at the ready. As soon as weather conditions safely permit, OUC begins toevaluate damage to its electric system.

Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as

possible to maintain the cold temperature. The refrigerator will

keep food cold for about 4 hours if unopened. A full freezer will

keep the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if only half

full) if the door remains closed. Buy dry or block ice to keep your

refrigerator as cold as possible if the power is going to be out

for a prolonged period of time.

If you will be eating your refrigerated or frozen meat, poultry, fish

or eggs while they are still at safe temperatures, be sure they

are thoroughly cooked to the proper temperature to assure

that any foodborne bacteria is destroyed.

After the flurry of activity to protect your family and home from a hurricane,

there’s often not much to do once it finally arrives other than to wait it

out. Here are some tips for when the hurricane makes landfall:

• Unless there is a life-threatening emergency, wait until after the storm to

contact OUC about your power outage. During the

first 24-48 hours after a storm, OUC assesses

damage to its system and throughout its

entire service area.

• Go to a safe room with few or

no windows at the center of the

structure, if possible.

• Monitor the news on

television or radio.

• Do not go outside or drive

around to “sight-see.”

1 0

QUESTION: I’M NOT SURE THAT MY TAP WATER IS SAFE.WHAT SHOULD I DO?

During the 2004 hurricane season, OUC water customers never experienced a

loss of water pressure and only a handful of customers received precautionary

boil-water notices. However, if there should be water issues following a

hurricane this year, please follow these guidelines:

• Have enough bottled water on hand to last several days — the American

Red Cross recommends one gallon of water per person per day.

• If you do not have bottled water and are not sure your tap water is safe, boil

the water vigorously (water should be bubbling and rolling) for 1-3 minutes.

• If you can't boil water, add 16 drops of newly purchased, unscented liquid

household bleach per gallon of water, stir it well, and then let the water

stand for 30 minutes before you use it. Note that using bleach will not

kill parasitic organisms.

• You also can use water-purifying tablets from your local pharmacy or

sporting goods store.

1 1

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING A STORM?When Weather Subsides, OUC Evaluates System Damage

KEEP YOUR FOOD SAFE

OUC at the ready. As soon as weather conditions safely permit, OUC begins toevaluate damage to its electric system.

Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as

possible to maintain the cold temperature. The refrigerator will

keep food cold for about 4 hours if unopened. A full freezer will

keep the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if only half

full) if the door remains closed. Buy dry or block ice to keep your

refrigerator as cold as possible if the power is going to be out

for a prolonged period of time.

If you will be eating your refrigerated or frozen meat, poultry, fish

or eggs while they are still at safe temperatures, be sure they

are thoroughly cooked to the proper temperature to assure

that any foodborne bacteria is destroyed.

1 2

HOW CAN I KEEP MY FAMILYSAFE AFTER A HURRICANE?

• Wear proper clothing, including shirts

with long sleeves and long pants, and

safety shoes or boots when cleaning up

after the storm.

• Learn proper safety procedures and

operating instructions before operating

any gas-powered or electric chainsaw.

• Use extreme caution when using

an electric chainsaw to avoid

electrical shock.

• Always wear a safety face shield or

eyeglasses and gloves when using

power equipment.

• Be careful of nails and broken glass when

removing boards covering the windows.

• Avoid downed power lines and notify OUC as soon as possible that lines

are down or damaged. Do not attempt to move or repair power lines.

• Do not drive through standing water if downed power lines are in the

water. If a power line falls across your vehicle while driving, continue

to drive away from the line. If the engine stalls, do not turn off the

ignition. Stay in your car, unless it is on fire, and wait for emergency

personnel. Do not allow anyone other than emergency personnel to

approach the vehicle.

• Avoid injuries at work when power lines are reenergized and equipment

is reactivated by being aware of electrical safety.

1 3

Stay away. After a hurricane, never approach adowned power line. Also avoid standing water asit could conceal a downed wire.

Once the storm passes, everyone is eager to get

home to inspect the damage and begin the clean-up

process, but remember the danger isn’t over just because the hurricane is.

Here are some suggestions to keep you, your family and your neighbors

safe after the storm:

QUESTION: I EVACUATED MY HOME. HOW DO I RETURNHOME SAFELY?

• Find out if the authorities have declared the area safe.

• Try to return to your home during the daytime so that you will not need

to use any lights.

• If the area is under a curfew, allow travel time to and from your home.

• Make sure the main electrical switch to your home is off before entering

the structure.

• If you have power, please turn on a porch or outdoor light so OUC

crews can quickly confirm that you have electrical service.

• Use battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas

lanterns or torches.

• Listen to the radio or contact authorities to find out if sewage lines are

intact before turning on the water or using the toilet.

• Continue to monitor your radio or television for up-to-date

emergency information.

THE STORM IS OVER.NOW WHAT DO I DO?Make Smart Decisions to StaySafe after a Storm Passes

1 2

HOW CAN I KEEP MY FAMILYSAFE AFTER A HURRICANE?

• Wear proper clothing, including shirts

with long sleeves and long pants, and

safety shoes or boots when cleaning up

after the storm.

• Learn proper safety procedures and

operating instructions before operating

any gas-powered or electric chainsaw.

• Use extreme caution when using

an electric chainsaw to avoid

electrical shock.

• Always wear a safety face shield or

eyeglasses and gloves when using

power equipment.

• Be careful of nails and broken glass when

removing boards covering the windows.

• Avoid downed power lines and notify OUC as soon as possible that lines

are down or damaged. Do not attempt to move or repair power lines.

• Do not drive through standing water if downed power lines are in the

water. If a power line falls across your vehicle while driving, continue

to drive away from the line. If the engine stalls, do not turn off the

ignition. Stay in your car, unless it is on fire, and wait for emergency

personnel. Do not allow anyone other than emergency personnel to

approach the vehicle.

• Avoid injuries at work when power lines are reenergized and equipment

is reactivated by being aware of electrical safety.

1 3

Stay away. After a hurricane, never approach adowned power line. Also avoid standing water asit could conceal a downed wire.

Once the storm passes, everyone is eager to get

home to inspect the damage and begin the clean-up

process, but remember the danger isn’t over just because the hurricane is.

Here are some suggestions to keep you, your family and your neighbors

safe after the storm:

QUESTION: I EVACUATED MY HOME. HOW DO I RETURNHOME SAFELY?

• Find out if the authorities have declared the area safe.

• Try to return to your home during the daytime so that you will not need

to use any lights.

• If the area is under a curfew, allow travel time to and from your home.

• Make sure the main electrical switch to your home is off before entering

the structure.

• If you have power, please turn on a porch or outdoor light so OUC

crews can quickly confirm that you have electrical service.

• Use battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas

lanterns or torches.

• Listen to the radio or contact authorities to find out if sewage lines are

intact before turning on the water or using the toilet.

• Continue to monitor your radio or television for up-to-date

emergency information.

THE STORM IS OVER.NOW WHAT DO I DO?Make Smart Decisions to StaySafe after a Storm Passes

A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone, which is a generic term for a

low pressure system that generally forms in the tropics. The cyclone is

accompanied by thunderstorms and, in the Northern Hemisphere, a

counterclockwise circulation of winds near the earth's surface. Tropical

cyclones are classified as follows:

Hurricanes are categorized according to the strength of their winds using the

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. A Category 1 storm has the lowest wind

speeds, while a Category 5 hurricane has

the strongest. These are relative terms,

because lower category storms can

sometimes inflict greater damage than

higher category storms, depending on

where they strike and the particular

hazards they bring. In fact, tropical storms

also can produce significant damage and

loss of life, mainly due to flooding.

WHAT IS A HURRICANE?

1 4

Tropical Depression An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulationand maximum sustained winds* of 38 mph or less.

Tropical Storm An organized system of strong thunderstormswith a defined surface circulation and maximumsustained winds of 39-73 mph.

Hurricane An intense tropical weather system of strongthunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.

* Sustained winds are defined as a 1-minute average wind measured atabout 33 ft. (10 meters) above the surface.

THE SAFFIR/SIMPSON HURRICANE SCALE

Category Definition-Effects

1 Winds: 74-95 mph (64-82 kt)

No real damage to building structures. Damage primarily tounanchored mobile homes, shrubbery and trees. Also, somecoastal flooding and minor pier damage.

2 Winds: 96-110 mph (83-95 kt)

Some roofing material, door and window damage.Considerable damage to vegetation, mobile homes, etc.Flooding damages piers, and small craft in unprotectedmoorings may break their moorings.

3 Winds: 111-130 mph (96-113 kt)

Some structural damage to small residences and utilitybuildings, with a minor amount of curtainwall failures. Mobilehomes are destroyed. Flooding near the coast destroyssmaller structures, and larger structures are damaged byfloating debris. Terrain may be flooded well inland.

4 Winds: 131-155 mph (114-135 kt)

More extensive curtainwall failures with some complete roofstructure failure on small residences. Major erosion ofbeach areas. Terrain may be flooded well inland.

5 Winds: 155+ mph (135+ kt)

Complete roof failure on many residences and industrialbuildings. Some complete building failures with small utilitybuildings blown over or away. Flooding causes majordamage to lower floors of all structures near the shoreline.Massive evacuation of residential areas may be required.

1 5

Powerful winds. Along with strong winds,hurricanes can bring heavy rain, lightning, tornadoes and more severe weather toCentral Florida.

A hurricane is a type of tropical cyclone, which is a generic term for a

low pressure system that generally forms in the tropics. The cyclone is

accompanied by thunderstorms and, in the Northern Hemisphere, a

counterclockwise circulation of winds near the earth's surface. Tropical

cyclones are classified as follows:

Hurricanes are categorized according to the strength of their winds using the

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. A Category 1 storm has the lowest wind

speeds, while a Category 5 hurricane has

the strongest. These are relative terms,

because lower category storms can

sometimes inflict greater damage than

higher category storms, depending on

where they strike and the particular

hazards they bring. In fact, tropical storms

also can produce significant damage and

loss of life, mainly due to flooding.

WHAT IS A HURRICANE?

1 4

Tropical Depression An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulationand maximum sustained winds* of 38 mph or less.

Tropical Storm An organized system of strong thunderstormswith a defined surface circulation and maximumsustained winds of 39-73 mph.

Hurricane An intense tropical weather system of strongthunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher.

* Sustained winds are defined as a 1-minute average wind measured atabout 33 ft. (10 meters) above the surface.

THE SAFFIR/SIMPSON HURRICANE SCALE

Category Definition-Effects

1 Winds: 74-95 mph (64-82 kt)

No real damage to building structures. Damage primarily tounanchored mobile homes, shrubbery and trees. Also, somecoastal flooding and minor pier damage.

2 Winds: 96-110 mph (83-95 kt)

Some roofing material, door and window damage.Considerable damage to vegetation, mobile homes, etc.Flooding damages piers, and small craft in unprotectedmoorings may break their moorings.

3 Winds: 111-130 mph (96-113 kt)

Some structural damage to small residences and utilitybuildings, with a minor amount of curtainwall failures. Mobilehomes are destroyed. Flooding near the coast destroyssmaller structures, and larger structures are damaged byfloating debris. Terrain may be flooded well inland.

4 Winds: 131-155 mph (114-135 kt)

More extensive curtainwall failures with some complete roofstructure failure on small residences. Major erosion ofbeach areas. Terrain may be flooded well inland.

5 Winds: 155+ mph (135+ kt)

Complete roof failure on many residences and industrialbuildings. Some complete building failures with small utilitybuildings blown over or away. Flooding causes majordamage to lower floors of all structures near the shoreline.Massive evacuation of residential areas may be required.

1 5

Powerful winds. Along with strong winds,hurricanes can bring heavy rain, lightning, tornadoes and more severe weather toCentral Florida.

• Typical hurricanes are about 300 miles wide

although they can vary considerably in size.

• The eye at a hurricane’s center is a relatively

calm, clear area about 20-40 miles across.

• The eyewall surrounding the eye is composed of dense

clouds that contain the highest winds.

• The storm’s outer rainbands (often with hurricane- or tropical storm-force

winds) are made up of dense bands of thunderstorms, ranging from a few

miles to tens of miles wide and 50 to 300 miles long.

• Hurricane-force winds can extend outward to about 25 miles in a small

hurricane and to more than 150 miles for a large one. Tropical storm-force

winds can stretch out as far as 300 miles from the center of a large hurricane.

• Frequently, the right side of a hurricane is the most dangerous in terms of

storm surge, winds and tornadoes.

• Do not focus only on the eye or the track. Hurricanes are immense systems

that can move in complex patterns that are difficult to predict. Be prepared

for changes in size, intensity, speed and direction.

HURRICANE FACTS

1 6

Eyewall/Wall Cloud: An organized band or ring of cumulonimbus clouds that surroundthe eye or light-wind center of a tropical cyclone. Eyewall and wallcloud are used synonymously.

Hurricane Eye: The roughly circular area of comparatively light winds that encompasses the center of a severe tropical cyclone. The eye iseither completely or partially surrounded by the eyewall cloud.

Hurricane Season: The portion of the year having a relatively high incidence of hurricanes. The hurricane season in the Atlantic, Caribbean andGulf of Mexico runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.

Hurricane Watch: An announcement for specific coastal areas that hurricane conditionsare possible within 36 hours.

Hurricane Warning: A warning that sustained winds 64 kt (74 mph or 119 km/hr) or higher associated with a hurricane are expected in a specifiedcoastal area in 24 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remainin effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

Storm Surge: An abnormal rise in sea level accompanying a hurricane or otherintense storm, and whose height is the difference between theobserved level of the sea surface and the level that would haveoccurred in the absence of the cyclone. Storm surge is usuallyestimated by subtracting the normal or astronomic high tide fromthe observed storm tide.

• Hurricane winds not only damage structures, but

the barrage of debris they carry is quite dangerous

to anyone unfortunate enough to be caught out in

them. Damaging winds begin well before the

hurricane eye makes landfall.

• Hurricanes frequently produce huge amounts of

rain, and flooding can be a significant problem,

particularly for inland communities. A typical

hurricane brings at least 6 to 12 inches of rainfall

to the area it crosses. The resulting floods cause

considerable damage and loss of life.

• Tornadoes spawned by landfalling hurricanes can cause enormous

destruction. As a hurricane moves shoreward, tornadoes often develop

on the fringes of the storm.

• Tornadoes are most likely to occur in the right-front quadrant of the

hurricane. However, they often are embedded in the rainbands, well

away from the center of the hurricane. When associated with hurricanes,

tornadoes usually are not accompanied by the usual telltale clues linked to

tornadoes like hail or lots of lightning.

HURRICANE TERMS

1 7

• Typical hurricanes are about 300 miles wide

although they can vary considerably in size.

• The eye at a hurricane’s center is a relatively

calm, clear area about 20-40 miles across.

• The eyewall surrounding the eye is composed of dense

clouds that contain the highest winds.

• The storm’s outer rainbands (often with hurricane- or tropical storm-force

winds) are made up of dense bands of thunderstorms, ranging from a few

miles to tens of miles wide and 50 to 300 miles long.

• Hurricane-force winds can extend outward to about 25 miles in a small

hurricane and to more than 150 miles for a large one. Tropical storm-force

winds can stretch out as far as 300 miles from the center of a large hurricane.

• Frequently, the right side of a hurricane is the most dangerous in terms of

storm surge, winds and tornadoes.

• Do not focus only on the eye or the track. Hurricanes are immense systems

that can move in complex patterns that are difficult to predict. Be prepared

for changes in size, intensity, speed and direction.

HURRICANE FACTS

1 6

Eyewall/Wall Cloud: An organized band or ring of cumulonimbus clouds that surroundthe eye or light-wind center of a tropical cyclone. Eyewall and wallcloud are used synonymously.

Hurricane Eye: The roughly circular area of comparatively light winds that encompasses the center of a severe tropical cyclone. The eye iseither completely or partially surrounded by the eyewall cloud.

Hurricane Season: The portion of the year having a relatively high incidence of hurricanes. The hurricane season in the Atlantic, Caribbean andGulf of Mexico runs from June 1 to Nov. 30.

Hurricane Watch: An announcement for specific coastal areas that hurricane conditionsare possible within 36 hours.

Hurricane Warning: A warning that sustained winds 64 kt (74 mph or 119 km/hr) or higher associated with a hurricane are expected in a specifiedcoastal area in 24 hours or less. A hurricane warning can remainin effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

Storm Surge: An abnormal rise in sea level accompanying a hurricane or otherintense storm, and whose height is the difference between theobserved level of the sea surface and the level that would haveoccurred in the absence of the cyclone. Storm surge is usuallyestimated by subtracting the normal or astronomic high tide fromthe observed storm tide.

• Hurricane winds not only damage structures, but

the barrage of debris they carry is quite dangerous

to anyone unfortunate enough to be caught out in

them. Damaging winds begin well before the

hurricane eye makes landfall.

• Hurricanes frequently produce huge amounts of

rain, and flooding can be a significant problem,

particularly for inland communities. A typical

hurricane brings at least 6 to 12 inches of rainfall

to the area it crosses. The resulting floods cause

considerable damage and loss of life.

• Tornadoes spawned by landfalling hurricanes can cause enormous

destruction. As a hurricane moves shoreward, tornadoes often develop

on the fringes of the storm.

• Tornadoes are most likely to occur in the right-front quadrant of the

hurricane. However, they often are embedded in the rainbands, well

away from the center of the hurricane. When associated with hurricanes,

tornadoes usually are not accompanied by the usual telltale clues linked to

tornadoes like hail or lots of lightning.

HURRICANE TERMS

1 7

Orlando

1 8

Arlene

Bret

Cindy

Dennis

Emily

Franklin

Gert

Harvey

Irene

Jose

Katrina

Lee

Maria

Nate

Ophelia

Philippe

Rita

Stan

Tammy

Vince

Wilma

HURRICANENAMES 2005

1 9

Orlando

1 8

Arlene

Bret

Cindy

Dennis

Emily

Franklin

Gert

Harvey

Irene

Jose

Katrina

Lee

Maria

Nate

Ophelia

Philippe

Rita

Stan

Tammy

Vince

Wilma

HURRICANENAMES 2005

1 9

Did you know nearly 20 percent of all power outages are caused by falling

trees or limbs that come into contact with electrical lines? At OUC, we

keep trees in our service area trimmed to help ensure better, safer service.

• The shape, size and growth rate of trees affect how often they need to be

trimmed. We try to create 10 feet of clearance alongside and below while

clearing all branches above our lines.

• Directional pruning allows us to train the tree to grow away from power

lines. By selectively trimming the tree's branches, we can retain much of

the tree’s natural crown.

• It may be necessary to remove an old/dead tree that has become a hazard

to the public or our electrical system. You will be notified if the tree is to

be removed.

• Please note: OUC does not trim trees that interfere with streetlights.

OUC TREE TRIMMING SERVICES Keeping Neighborhoods Safe and Beautiful

PLANT THE RIGHT TREE IN THE RIGHT PLACEPlant Taller Trees Away from Overhead Utility Lines

LEAVE TRIMMING TO THE PROS

• OUC trims trees along our

distribution lines on a regular

maintenance cycle employing

highly skilled professionals

who use the proper tools and

safety practices.

• We trim only those trees on our

easements and rights-of-way or

trees endangering our power lines

and equipment.

• If you notice a tree interfering with

power lines, please call us at 407.423.9018.

• Never attempt to trim a tree near electrical

wires yourself.

PLANT WISELY WHEN SPRUCING UP THE YARD

When you’re designing that dream landscape for your property, note the

location of overhead and underground power, cable and utility lines.

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to creating a beautiful,

low-maintenance and safe yard. For your next landscaping project:

• Choose low-growing trees when planting near overhead lines.

• Plant fast-growing trees at least 20 feet away from power lines.

• Avoid planting trees, shrubs or vines close to pad-mounted transformers.

Some ideal trees for planting beneath power lines include Scrub Hickory,

Weeping Bottlebrush, Crepe Myrtle and Wax Myrtle. For more help selecting

trees, contact your local nursery or garden center. Visit www.ouc.com for

more information on tree trimming and landscaping tips.

2 12 0

Graphic fromThe National Arbor Day Foundation

Keep lines clear. It’s important that powerlines near your home are kept clear of

tree limbs, so don’t plant tall trees underor near lines.

Did you know nearly 20 percent of all power outages are caused by falling

trees or limbs that come into contact with electrical lines? At OUC, we

keep trees in our service area trimmed to help ensure better, safer service.

• The shape, size and growth rate of trees affect how often they need to be

trimmed. We try to create 10 feet of clearance alongside and below while

clearing all branches above our lines.

• Directional pruning allows us to train the tree to grow away from power

lines. By selectively trimming the tree's branches, we can retain much of

the tree’s natural crown.

• It may be necessary to remove an old/dead tree that has become a hazard

to the public or our electrical system. You will be notified if the tree is to

be removed.

• Please note: OUC does not trim trees that interfere with streetlights.

OUC TREE TRIMMING SERVICES Keeping Neighborhoods Safe and Beautiful

PLANT THE RIGHT TREE IN THE RIGHT PLACEPlant Taller Trees Away from Overhead Utility Lines

LEAVE TRIMMING TO THE PROS

• OUC trims trees along our

distribution lines on a regular

maintenance cycle employing

highly skilled professionals

who use the proper tools and

safety practices.

• We trim only those trees on our

easements and rights-of-way or

trees endangering our power lines

and equipment.

• If you notice a tree interfering with

power lines, please call us at 407.423.9018.

• Never attempt to trim a tree near electrical

wires yourself.

PLANT WISELY WHEN SPRUCING UP THE YARD

When you’re designing that dream landscape for your property, note the

location of overhead and underground power, cable and utility lines.

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to creating a beautiful,

low-maintenance and safe yard. For your next landscaping project:

• Choose low-growing trees when planting near overhead lines.

• Plant fast-growing trees at least 20 feet away from power lines.

• Avoid planting trees, shrubs or vines close to pad-mounted transformers.

Some ideal trees for planting beneath power lines include Scrub Hickory,

Weeping Bottlebrush, Crepe Myrtle and Wax Myrtle. For more help selecting

trees, contact your local nursery or garden center. Visit www.ouc.com for

more information on tree trimming and landscaping tips.

2 12 0

Graphic fromThe National Arbor Day Foundation

Keep lines clear. It’s important that powerlines near your home are kept clear of

tree limbs, so don’t plant tall trees underor near lines.

2 32 2

I am pleased that the City of Orlando has joined forceswith OUC to reach out to our community and ensure thesafety of our citizens for the upcoming hurricane season.

Last year’s tumultuous hurricane season caused all of us toreflect on what is important in our lives, in our communitiesand in our families. Our City came together with neighbor

helping neighbor, and our City employees worked tirelessly to get our Cityback to normal after Charley, Frances and Jeanne came through Orlando.

This year as we prepare for the 2005 hurricane season, the City of Orlandorenews its commitment to provide citizens with the highest level of servicesthey have come to expect. Our Office of Emergency Management is workingwith various City departments such as public works, the parks division andthe Orlando Police Department to coordinate preventative measures inanticipation of the upcoming hurricane season.

I encourage you to log onto the City’s Web site at www.cityoforlando.netto find out more about the hurricane preparedness and response resourcesoffered to citizens.

Sincerely,

LETTER FROM BUDDY DYERCity of Orlando Mayor, OUC Commissioner The City of Orlando’s Forestry Program is responsible for the care and

maintenance of trees in the City parks or rights-of-way (trees in betweenthe sidewalk and curb). These services include trimming, removal (of dead,dying, diseased or dangerous trees) and inspection of trees on both City andprivately owned land.

TREE TRIMMINGThe City employs professionally trained tree trimmers,arborists and an Urban Forester. The Forester can inspecttrees on private property, but the City tree trimmers canwork only on trees on public property, such as in the Cityrights-of-way.

The City will not trim or remove trees on or over private property. Also,they cannot trim trees on public property if they are touching or near powerlines. These trees can be maintained only by OUC for safety purposes.

TREE REMOVAL PERMIT

Removal of trees from private property requires a permit if the tree is largerthan 4 inches diameter at chest height. The Tree Code Inspector will come tosee the tree; a permit will be issued if the removal is warranted. There is a feeof $25/acre for private tree removals and $50/acre for commercial removals.

For more information on the City of Orlando’s Forestry program and services,contact the Parks Division at 407.246.2283.

TREE REMOVAL POLICY

CITY OF ORLANDO KEY CONTACT INFORMATION24-hour information on the City of Orlando’s hurricane and emergency managementresources is available at cityoforlando.net. Additionally, details on post-hurricanerecovery resources such as disaster relief, building damage, downed trees,garbage collection and sewer problems will be updated on the City’s Web sitethroughout the hurricane season.

Pre-Hurricane Planning:Office of Emergency Management 321.235.5437

During and Post-Hurricane Recovery:24-hour City Emergency Information Line 407.246.4268

Other Important Phone Numbers:Insurance Information 800.227.8676Report Price Gouging 800.435.7352Red Cross of Central Florida 407.894.4141Social Service Needs & Community Resources 211Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) fema.gov 800.621.3362

2 32 2

I am pleased that the City of Orlando has joined forceswith OUC to reach out to our community and ensure thesafety of our citizens for the upcoming hurricane season.

Last year’s tumultuous hurricane season caused all of us toreflect on what is important in our lives, in our communitiesand in our families. Our City came together with neighbor

helping neighbor, and our City employees worked tirelessly to get our Cityback to normal after Charley, Frances and Jeanne came through Orlando.

This year as we prepare for the 2005 hurricane season, the City of Orlandorenews its commitment to provide citizens with the highest level of servicesthey have come to expect. Our Office of Emergency Management is workingwith various City departments such as public works, the parks division andthe Orlando Police Department to coordinate preventative measures inanticipation of the upcoming hurricane season.

I encourage you to log onto the City’s Web site at www.cityoforlando.netto find out more about the hurricane preparedness and response resourcesoffered to citizens.

Sincerely,

LETTER FROM BUDDY DYERCity of Orlando Mayor, OUC Commissioner The City of Orlando’s Forestry Program is responsible for the care and

maintenance of trees in the City parks or rights-of-way (trees in betweenthe sidewalk and curb). These services include trimming, removal (of dead,dying, diseased or dangerous trees) and inspection of trees on both City andprivately owned land.

TREE TRIMMINGThe City employs professionally trained tree trimmers,arborists and an Urban Forester. The Forester can inspecttrees on private property, but the City tree trimmers canwork only on trees on public property, such as in the Cityrights-of-way.

The City will not trim or remove trees on or over private property. Also,they cannot trim trees on public property if they are touching or near powerlines. These trees can be maintained only by OUC for safety purposes.

TREE REMOVAL PERMIT

Removal of trees from private property requires a permit if the tree is largerthan 4 inches diameter at chest height. The Tree Code Inspector will come tosee the tree; a permit will be issued if the removal is warranted. There is a feeof $25/acre for private tree removals and $50/acre for commercial removals.

For more information on the City of Orlando’s Forestry program and services,contact the Parks Division at 407.246.2283.

TREE REMOVAL POLICY

CITY OF ORLANDO KEY CONTACT INFORMATION24-hour information on the City of Orlando’s hurricane and emergency managementresources is available at cityoforlando.net. Additionally, details on post-hurricanerecovery resources such as disaster relief, building damage, downed trees,garbage collection and sewer problems will be updated on the City’s Web sitethroughout the hurricane season.

Pre-Hurricane Planning:Office of Emergency Management 321.235.5437

During and Post-Hurricane Recovery:24-hour City Emergency Information Line 407.246.4268

Other Important Phone Numbers:Insurance Information 800.227.8676Report Price Gouging 800.435.7352Red Cross of Central Florida 407.894.4141Social Service Needs & Community Resources 211Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) fema.gov 800.621.3362

2 4 2 5

PERSONAL CHECKLISTq Containers for drinking water

(5 gallons per person, minimum)

q Seal water containers tightly, label

and date them when filled and

store in a cool dark place

q Heavy-duty trash bags

q Bleach (pure, unscented, liquid)

q Water purification tablets

q Non-perishable (canned or

packaged) food and beverages

(at least 3-day supply)

q Pet carrier(s), extra pet food

and water

q Non-electric can opener

q Emergency/camping cooking

equipment and fuel

q Fire extinguisher

q Portable cooler

q Matches or lighters

q Rope

q Duct tape

q Tarp

q Baby food, diapers and formula

q Extra prescription medicine

(2-week supply)

q Battery-powered radio and

extra batteries

q 2 flashlights and 2 extra packets

of batteries

q List of important phone numbers

q Insurance policies/titles

to property

q Toiletries

q Special dietary needs

q Insect repellent

q First-aid kit

q Cash

The City of Orlando has an aggressive and proactive EmergencyManagement Program to serve the citizens of Orlando. The Office ofEmergency Management (OEM) is responsible for reducing the effects ofpotential disasters such as hurricanes before they occur; coordinating theoperations and response to hurricanes; managing resources of recovery effortsfollowing a hurricane; and providing public education and information.

OEM works with more than 100 various local, volunteer, state and federalorganizations on an on-going basis to ensure that the City of OrlandoEmergency Management Team is prepared to help citizens survive any hurricane. Family hurricane planning is critical and should be in place at alltimes. Your family’s plan should include emergency contacts, identification ofmeeting places and a hurricane survival kit.

For 24-hour information from the Office of Emergency Management, goonline to www.cityoforlando.net.

ORANGE COUNTY INFORMATIONOrange County GovernmentWeb site: www.orangecountyfl.net

Orange County Office of Emergency ManagementWeb site: www.ocoem.com

Includes hurricane preparation information, emergency management plans, stormstatus reports, contact information, damage assessment forms and more.

Orange County Government INFO: 407.836.3111

The County’s Government INFO is a citizens information line for Orange County. Duringemergencies, the Government INFO will be staffed 24 hours until the County getsback to normal operations. Citizens can call this number to report emergencies intheir area and to receive information about emergencies. The Government INFOstaff are trained call-takers who can answer both general and emergencyquestions such as location of shelters, pet care concerns, weather/storm status,information about survival kits, power outages, traffic signal failures and more.

CITY OF ORLANDO: OFFICE OFEMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

2 4 2 5

PERSONAL CHECKLISTq Containers for drinking water

(5 gallons per person, minimum)

q Seal water containers tightly, label

and date them when filled and

store in a cool dark place

q Heavy-duty trash bags

q Bleach (pure, unscented, liquid)

q Water purification tablets

q Non-perishable (canned or

packaged) food and beverages

(at least 3-day supply)

q Pet carrier(s), extra pet food

and water

q Non-electric can opener

q Emergency/camping cooking

equipment and fuel

q Fire extinguisher

q Portable cooler

q Matches or lighters

q Rope

q Duct tape

q Tarp

q Baby food, diapers and formula

q Extra prescription medicine

(2-week supply)

q Battery-powered radio and

extra batteries

q 2 flashlights and 2 extra packets

of batteries

q List of important phone numbers

q Insurance policies/titles

to property

q Toiletries

q Special dietary needs

q Insect repellent

q First-aid kit

q Cash

The City of Orlando has an aggressive and proactive EmergencyManagement Program to serve the citizens of Orlando. The Office ofEmergency Management (OEM) is responsible for reducing the effects ofpotential disasters such as hurricanes before they occur; coordinating theoperations and response to hurricanes; managing resources of recovery effortsfollowing a hurricane; and providing public education and information.

OEM works with more than 100 various local, volunteer, state and federalorganizations on an on-going basis to ensure that the City of OrlandoEmergency Management Team is prepared to help citizens survive any hurricane. Family hurricane planning is critical and should be in place at alltimes. Your family’s plan should include emergency contacts, identification ofmeeting places and a hurricane survival kit.

For 24-hour information from the Office of Emergency Management, goonline to www.cityoforlando.net.

ORANGE COUNTY INFORMATIONOrange County GovernmentWeb site: www.orangecountyfl.net

Orange County Office of Emergency ManagementWeb site: www.ocoem.com

Includes hurricane preparation information, emergency management plans, stormstatus reports, contact information, damage assessment forms and more.

Orange County Government INFO: 407.836.3111

The County’s Government INFO is a citizens information line for Orange County. Duringemergencies, the Government INFO will be staffed 24 hours until the County getsback to normal operations. Citizens can call this number to report emergencies intheir area and to receive information about emergencies. The Government INFOstaff are trained call-takers who can answer both general and emergencyquestions such as location of shelters, pet care concerns, weather/storm status,information about survival kits, power outages, traffic signal failures and more.

CITY OF ORLANDO: OFFICE OFEMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

HURRICANE GUIDEOrlando Utilities Commission

500 South Orange AvenueOrlando, Florida 32801

Phone: 407.423.9100 Fax: 407.236.9616www.ouc.com

Frequently Asked Questions 2 0 0 5