3,000 Still Without Power After Windy Weekend
DETROIT (WWJ) - DTE Energy officials say about 3,000 residents in metro Detroit are still without power Tuesday morning after high winds blew across the state this past weekend.
Approximately 120,000 customers lost service at some point over the weekend, but 98 percent of those have had their electric service restored. The remaining outages are scattered throughout DTE Energy's service area, mainly in Wayne, Oakland, Livingston and Tuscola counties.
DTE officials say crews have been working 16-hour shifts around the clock to restore the power. A spokesperson said workers are also being hampered by the bitterly cold conditions.
DTE is constantly updating a power outage map to show residents where to expect the worst. Click here to check the map.
Some power outage tips:
• Stay at least 20 feet from downed power lines and anything with which they come in contact, especially metal fences. Treat every downed power line as if it were energized.
• Don't open refrigerators or freezers more often than absolutely necessary. A closed refrigerator will stay cold for 12 hours. Kept closed, a well-filled freezer will preserve food for two days.
• Turn off or unplug all appliances to prevent an electrical overload when power is restored. Leave on one light switch to indicate when power is restored.
• Always operate generators outdoors to avoid dangerous buildup of toxic fumes.
• If a customer is elderly or has a medical condition that would be adversely impacted by a power outage, they should try to make alternative accommodations with family or friends.
• During low-voltage conditions – when lights are dim and television pictures are smaller – shut off motor-driven appliances such as refrigerators to prevent overheating and possible damage. Sensitive electronic devices also should be unplugged.
• Stay out of flooded or damp basements or other areas if water is in contact with outlets or any electrically operated appliance. The water or moisture may serve as a conductor of electricity. This can cause serious or even fatal injury.
• To avoid freezing pipes, slowly drip water from faucets and periodically flush toilets.
