FPL Prepares For Storm With Upgraded Electrical Systems

Miami (CBSMiami) – Florida Power and Light doesn't want to leave you in the dark as Tropical Storm Isaac moves closer to Florida. The company said Thursday its ready to respond should Isaac cause a problem for South Florida.

FPL officials say the company has a much more durable system in place now than they did 7 years ago during the last major storm system.

They've worked continually for years, and spent big money, to upgrade their systems and prepare for a major storm.

Right now, they're monitoring Isaac very closely and getting ready to activate their emergency response plan if necessary.

They have agreements with out of town utility companies who would come to South Florida to help make repairs if needed.

If and when that happens, officials said, crews would work around the clock to restore power to customers.

FPL said a lot has been done since the storm season of 2005.

"FPL has invested approximately a billion dollars in our electric infrastructure meaning its stronger now, it's more storm resistant however having said that, I would like to point out that no electric system is storm proof," explained FPL spokesperson Marie Bertot.

Part of their upgrades include stronger utility poles and main power lines, power line inspections with infrared technology, clearing of vegetation from neighborhood power lines and clearing of vegetation from main power lines.

Despite all their advances, FPL wants to remind customers that you need to have your own emergency response plan in place and be prepared just in case the power does goes out.

FPL customers can visit www.FPL.com/maps and enter their street address to see a detailed map of electrical improvements in their neighborhoods. This online tool shows the system improvements in your community.

>> Visit the CBS4 Tropics Page for an interactive Tropical Tracker, the newest computer model tracks and more.

>> Here's how to use the CBS4 site to prepare for and monitor Isaac: