Consumers Energy is advising residents in Genesee County, Michigan, to prepare for potential power outages as severe storms are forecasted for Wednesday amidst a heatwave. With high temperatures expected to persist, it’s crucial for residents to have a plan in place should they lose power.
Brian Wheeler, a spokesperson for Consumers Energy, emphasized the importance of safety during these conditions, urging people to remain at home if possible. He also provided several tips to help mitigate the impact of outages. These include unplugging electronics to safeguard against power surges, especially for homes relying on life-support equipment. Installation of a generator for emergency power is recommended for those in need.
Additionally, Wheeler suggested pre-cooling homes by running air conditioners earlier in the day and preparing with essentials such as flashlights, batteries, and a charged phone. Residents are encouraged to identify local places, like libraries and malls, where they can seek refuge from the heat if their power goes out.
For those who have a generator, it’s vital to place it outside and in well-ventilated areas to ensure safety. Keeping outdoor lights on can help power restoration crews identify homes that are still without electricity.
Residents can stay informed by signing up for alerts and checking online outage maps. Lastly, in the event of downed power lines, Wheeler urged everyone to maintain a safe distance and call emergency services.
In light of these preparations, it’s reassuring to know that public safety resources are in place, and communities can come together to support one another during adverse weather events.