Michigan Power Outage Tips: Prepare Now

In the past few years, Michigan power companies have become less and less reliable. While companies like DTE talk about how they are working to make the grid more reliable we have yet to see the pay-off and Michigan Power Outages are on the rise.

The good news is that there are things you can do to prepare your home and your family to handle Michigan power outages this summer to prevent the loss of food and keep your family comfortable.

As the summer months approach in Michigan, so does the potential for severe weather and subsequent power outages. With our state’s susceptibility to thunderstorms, high winds, and even tornadoes, it’s crucial to be prepared for possible disruptions. Here are some tips to ensure you’re ready for a summer power outage in Michigan:

1. Keep an Emergency Kit Ready:

Prepare a well-stocked emergency kit that includes flashlights, extra batteries, a portable battery-powered or hand-crank radio, first aid supplies, a multi-tool, and a manual can opener. Don’t forget personal items, like prescription medications, hygiene products, and copies of important documents.

2. Secure a Power Source:

A portable generator can be a great backup power source, but it should never be used indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure you have a safe place to operate it and store fuel. Alternatively, consider purchasing a power bank to keep your phones and other small devices charged.

3. Stay Cool:

High temperatures can be a major concern during a summer power outage. Plan for ways to stay cool without electricity. This could involve having fans that can be powered by batteries or a generator, staying in the basement where it’s naturally cooler, or even having a plan to go to a local cooling center if the power is out for a long time. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

4. Food and Water:

Store at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person per day. If the power outage is forecasted, use perishable food from the refrigerator first to minimize waste. Also, fill up your bathtubs and other large containers with water for washing and flushing toilets if necessary.

5. Freeze Water Bottles:

Ahead of a severe storm, fill up water bottles and freeze them. Not only will this provide you with an extra water source, but if power is lost, they can also help keep the food in your refrigerator or cooler cold for a longer time.

6. Communicate:

Inform your friends, relatives, or neighbors about your plans. Having someone outside the affected area who knows you’re safe can provide peace of mind. Make sure you have a battery-operated or hand-crank radio to stay updated on the news and any emergency instructions.

7. Prepare Your Home:

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Remove any dead or rotting trees that could fall on your house, causing damage and possibly knocking out power. Install surge protectors to safeguard your appliances and devices in case of a power surge when the electricity is restored.

8. Mental Preparation:

It’s equally important to mentally prepare for a power outage. Power outages can cause a lot of stress and anxiety, especially when they last for extended periods. Having books, board games, or other non-electrical forms of entertainment can help keep everyone calm and occupied.

Remember, every situation is unique, and these tips should be customized to fit your specific needs and circumstances. By being prepared, you can ensure the safety and comfort of your household during a summer power outage in Michigan.