JACKSON, Mich., May 31, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers Energy is preparing for possible power outages due to anticipated severe weather, and urges customers and residents to also be ready in case of a storm.
Strong to severe thunderstorms along with high winds and possible isolated tornadoes are in this weekend's forecast for most of Lower Michigan.
Consumers Energy crews are ready should this weather materialize. Headquarters are being staffed beginning tonight and additional company and contractor crews are on standby to quickly respond to any power outages caused by the storms.
"As the spring storm season continues in Michigan, we're committed to doing everything we can to deliver safe, reliable energy service to our customers when severe weather hits. A wide range of company, contract personnel and equipment have been mobilized to rapidly respond to any customer power outages," said Michele Kirkland, Consumers Energy vice president of Energy Operations.
Some important tips to help prepare for a storm include:
- Charge electronic devices such as cell phones and laptops, and have fresh batteries available for items such as flashlights and weather radios.
- Have a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food available, and don't forget a first aid kit or any prescription medication if needed.
- During and after a storm, people are advised to stay at least 25 feet from any downed lines and assume that every line is "live" and dangerous. Residents are also reminded to not touch anything a power line may be touching, including trees, fences, other debris, and puddles.
- Report any downed wires by calling 9-1-1 or Consumers Energy at 1-800-477-5050.
- If flooding or another disaster should occur, check for the odor of natural gas before entering any area. If you think you smell this "rotten egg" odor, leave the area immediately and call 1-800-477-5050. Remember to replace any appliance submerged in water.
"Being prepared can help minimize the impact of a storm and can help you and your loved ones stay safe. That's why it is so important to take time to make a plan to deal with severe weather during any season," Kirkland added.
Customers who lose power should contact Consumers Energy at 1-800-477-5050 or online at www.ConsumersEnergy.com. Customers can report an outage, get outage information, including updated estimated restoration times, all on a detailed map available at www.ConsumersEnergy.com/outagemap. The map is accessible via both desktop computer and mobile devices.
Consumers Energy, the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), provides natural gas and electricity to 6.6 million of Michigan's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.
For more information regarding Consumers Energy, go to:www.ConsumersEnergy.com or join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/consumersenergymichigan
SOURCE Consumers Energy