(WAND) - Intense winds and storms mean downed power lines and power outages across central Illinois, and Ameren is reminding you to be careful around live power lines.
Be especially cautious around standing water, pools of water, brush, shrubs and fallen trees that may conceal power lines and avoid driving over them.
Ameren Illinois Spokesman Brian Bretsch encourages you to check in with older adults during a power outage.
"If an outage happens, it's always good to pick up the phone and call them. Or if you can't reach them just drive by their house and do a wellness check on them," Bretsch said.
Bretsch also asks drivers to be mindful of crews as they repair power lines in your community.
Report outages and downed lines to your power company.
