GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Consumers Energy is making all necessary preparations before the large winter storms makes its way to West Michigan.
This storm is expected to bring heavy snow, freezing temperatures and damaging wind gusts into this weekend.
Wind gusts could reach 60 mph, resulting in safety hazards and power outages across the area.
To help the public prepare for what to do before, during and after a storm, Consumers Energy is encouraging people to visit their website for helpful tips.
“Consumers Energy customers should know we are all-hands-on-deck preparing for this storm. Crews are preparing trucks and essential materials right now to assist with any restoration efforts,” said Garrick Rochow, President and CEO of Consumers Energy. “We are ready and we’ll work as quickly and as safely as possible to restore any outages this storm may cause. We are grateful for our customers’ patience and understanding.”
Some preparation tips for potential severe weather include:
- 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.
Consumers Energy also urges the public to keep these important storm safety tips in mind:
- Stay at least 25 feet away from downed wires and anything they are touching, keep children or pets away, and report the issue by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
- 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.
- 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.
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