More than 300,000 Without Power During Storm; Tips To Stay Safe

DETROIT, MI — Wind and ice are creating mass power outages across southeastern Michigan as the Winter Storm Watch continues for the northern counties of Michigan. Some 300,000 DTE customers are without power, largely in Canton and downriver cities of Taylor and Romulus, with scattered outages reported in Oakland County and parts of Wayne County. Royal Oak, Dearborn, Farmington Hills and Detroit have all been impacted.

Check DTE’s Outage Map here.

Freezing rains have also created hazardous conditions in the region and are expected for the duration of Sunday and overnight into Monday, according to weather.gov.

The Michigan State Police issued tips to stay safe during this weekend’s storm. Preparations for severe weather include charging cell phones and other devices in case power is interrupted, evaluating whether driving is necessary, allowing more time for travel if you choose to drive and creating emergency kits for your car and home.

Ice accumulation is a serious threat to power lines, according to MSP. Below are some specific reminders from them on staying safe during a power outage:

• During and after a storm, stay at least 25 feet from any downed lines and assume that every line is “live” and dangerous.
• If clearing trees or limbs, make CERTAIN they are not in contact with a power line. Trees and branches can conduct electricity and electrocute you on contact.
• Do not call 911 to ask about the power outage. Report outages to your utility company.
• Never run a generator indoors. Ensure it is outside – far away from windows or any other area where exhaust can vent back into a living area. Carbon monoxide can cause injury or death.
• Have an emergency preparedness kit ready with supplies to last three days per person (e.g., food, water, first aid kit, flashlight and radio with extra batteries, clothing and blankets).

For more information about what to do before, during and after an emergency or disaster, go to www.michigan.gov/miready or follow the MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS.

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