DTE Power Outages Cause Widespread Disruption in Metro Detroit
The recent storms that swept through southeastern Michigan have left hundreds of thousands of DTE Energy customers without power. As of Tuesday, DTE is reporting more than 193,000 customers affected by the outages.
Downed Power Lines and Safety Concerns
The intense storms have caused numerous downed power lines throughout the area. DTE is urging the public to stay at least 25 feet away from any downed wires or objects close to or touching them. Customers who have lost power or see a downed line should contact DTE either by phone at 800-477-4747, on their website, or through the DTE Energy Mobile App.
Restoration Efforts and Timeline
DTE has crews actively working in the field to assess damage and restore power as safely and quickly as possible. As of Monday morning, approximately 60% of affected customers had been restored overnight, with around 18,500 outages remaining. The utility expects to have 95% of all customers affected by the storm restored by the end of the day.
However, extended power outages have become a distressingly common problem for Metro Detroit residents. In 2021, Michigan ranked third in the country for how long it takes to restore customer power after an outage. Frequent and prolonged outages can create significant hardship, impacting daily activities, communication systems, medical facilities, and traffic.
To stay safe during a power outage in Detroit, it’s essential to be prepared and informed. Here are some key tips and guidelines to help you navigate through an outage effectively.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Having an emergency kit ready can make a significant difference during a power outage. Here are some essentials to include:
Water: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
Non-perishable food: Keep a supply of food that doesn’t require cooking or refrigeration, such as canned goods, nuts, and dried fruits. Don’t forget a manual can opener!
Flashlights and batteries: Battery-operated or solar-powered lights are safer than candles. Ensure you have extra batteries on hand.
First-aid kit: Include antiseptic wipes, bandages, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
Portable phone charger: A solar-powered charging bank can keep your devices charged during an outage.
Blankets: Depending on the season, have enough blankets to keep warm or cool.
Important documents: Keep copies of essential documents like insurance papers and identification in a waterproof container.
Cash: In case of extended outages, having cash on hand can be helpful, as electronic payment systems may not work.
Stay Informed
When the power goes out, it’s crucial to stay updated:
Check DTE Energy’s Outage Center: This provides real-time updates on outages, including the number of customers affected and estimated restoration times.
Report outages: If you experience a power outage, report it to DTE Energy through their website or by calling 800-477-4747.
Safety Around Downed Power Lines
If you encounter downed power lines, follow these safety tips:
Stay at least 25 feet away: Keep a safe distance from downed wires and anything that may be touching them.
Report downed lines immediately: Use the DTE Energy Mobile App or call DTE to report any downed lines.
Avoid driving over downed lines: This can be extremely dangerous.
Keeping Cool or Warm
Depending on the season, you may need to manage extreme temperatures:
In Hot Weather
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Find cooler areas: Spend time in the shadiest parts of your home or in basements.
Use battery-operated fans: These can help circulate air and keep you cool.
Close curtains and blinds: This can help block out heat from the sun.
In Cold Weather
Dress warmly: Layer your clothing and use blankets to stay warm.
Use fireplaces safely: If you have a fireplace, ensure it’s safe to use and keep flammable materials away from flames.
Avoid using gas stoves for heating: This can be dangerous and lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Food Safety
To prevent food spoilage during a power outage:
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed: This helps maintain the cold temperature for as long as possible.
Plan for food disposal: Any food that has been above 40°F for more than two hours should be discarded.
Entertainment and Activities
Power outages can be long and tedious, especially for children. Here are some ideas to keep spirits up:
Board games and card games: These can be a great way to pass the time and bond with family.
Reading: Use this time to catch up on books.
Outdoor activities: If it’s safe, spend time outside enjoying nature.
Staying safe during a power outage in Detroit requires preparation and awareness. By assembling an emergency kit, staying informed, and following safety guidelines, you can navigate through outages more effectively.
The recent storms have caused significant disruption in Metro Detroit, with hundreds of thousands of DTE customers left without power. While restoration efforts are underway, the frequency and duration of these outages highlight the need for improved reliability and preparedness. By staying informed, practicing safety measures, and being prepared, residents can better cope with the challenges posed by power outages in the region.
