DTE Warns of Possible Outages

The National Weather Service's high-wind alert caused DTE Energy to issue it's own safety statement about possible power outages tonight or Monday.

The weather service indicates winds will blow at about 30 miles an hour, with gusts up to 45 miles an hour.

These winds will subside somewhat overnight but continue to be brisk on Monday.

The weather service cautions residents that gusts can cause large tree limbs or weak trees to blow down, as well as snap power lines. Drivers may find controlling high-profile vehicles difficult during this time.

DTE Energy's suggestions include unplugging major appliances and sensitive electronic equipment.

Other advice:

• Stay safe by keeping yourself, children and pets at least 20 feet away from downed power lines as well as what they may be touching, including puddles and metal fences.
• If you encounter a downed power line while driving, don't try to cross over it. If a power line does fall on your car, remain inside until help arrives.
• Report power outages. It helps DTE map problems. Reports can be made online; from a mobile device at mobile.dteenergy.com or using the automated phone system at 800.477.4747. Those same methods, plus text messaging are how you can track progress in restoring power. Estimates can change, however, depending on the circumstances of the outage.
• Click on this text for more tips.