Jackson, Mich. — Ahead of the winter storm that is forecasted to reach the Jackson area Thursday evening, Consumers Energy says they are all-hands-on-deck preparing trucks and essential materials to assist with any power restoration efforts necessary.
Wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour expected with this winter storm could cause power outages, and Garrick Rochow, President and CEO of Consumers Energy, says the utility company will work as quickly and safely as possible to restore power to those who may lose it.
Customers can see an outage map, report an outage, and sign up to receive power restoration updates at ConsumersEnergy.com/OutageCenter.
Consumers Energy also offers some preparation tips for potential severe weather:
- Charge all electronic devices. 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.
Safety tips from Consumers Energy include:
- 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 911 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 can safely go past workers on roadsides.