MICHIGAN, USA — Consumers Energy released a statement ahead of the winter weather expected to hit West Michigan on Monday.
Consumers said they're preparing their crews ahead of the storm as the high winds are expected to cause power outages.
Consumers said their Energy Storm Restoration Team has been keeping an eye on the incoming weather for several days and they are ready to respond with over 180 crews being staged in advance.
In the event of downed powerlines, Consumers reminded the public to stay at least 15 feet away from the wires and anything they might be touching. They ask you keep children and pets away and call 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
Consumers also shared tips for how you can prepare for severe weather:
- Charge all electronic devices. It’s advised to have an emergency battery or charging station available for use during an outage.
- Have an emergency kit that includes flashlights and extra batteries, water, canned food and blankets. Be prepared with enough medication, baby supplies and pet food if applicable. A battery-operated radio is also a good idea.
- Unplug sensitive electronics like TVs, computers and printers. Turn power strips off.
Along with preparedness tips, Consumers shared safety tips as well:
- A portable generator should be placed at least 25 feet away from any doors, windows or fresh air intakes. Never operate a generator inside your home, garage, basement or enclosed area. Proper ventilation is critical.
- In addition to moving your generator outdoors and away from your home doors and intakes, don’t run your vehicles in a garage or use your gas stove for heat. If you have a fireplace, ensure the flue is open and only use if it’s been cleaned and serviced this year.
- Be alert to crews working along slick roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they safely can go past workers on roadsides.
You can visit the Consumers website here for more tips on what to do before, during and after a storm. On their website you can also find the outage map, report an outage and sign up to receive power restoration updates.
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