power outage - WKTV Journal

Recent storms took down trees and power lines, and damaged structures (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff

A severe storm with damaging winds hit West Michigan earlier this week. Several homes and businesses were left without power and/or structural damage. First responders were hindered by road obstructions as they attempted to help those in need.

The storm’s aftermath has left several people wondering how they can be better prepared to safely weather future storms.

Keep power outdoor equipment on hand

Summer storm season is here, and having the right outdoor power equipment on hand year-round is important, says the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). OPEI advises home and business owners to think ahead before foul weather or a power outage disrupts life.

Be prepared – any season can be storm season (Courtesy photo)

“It’s important to be prepared year-round given any season can be storm season,” says Kris Kiser, President & CEO of OPEI. “We see more people investing in portable and whole house generators and having other outdoor power equipment on hand such as chainsaws and water pumps to mitigate any damage from felled trees and water damage and floods.”

Kiser adds that outdoor power equipment is becoming faster, lighter, more efficient, and more technologically-advanced.

“There’s a power source for every need including battery/electric, propane, solar and gasoline,” Kiser says, noting each has different maintenance and care requirements. “Always read and follow the manufacturer’s manual.”

Identify which equipment is needed

To get ready for inclement weather, homeowners should identify which equipment is needed.

Having the proper equipment on hand can help mitigate damage from storms (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Chainsaws or pole saws can trim limbs and shrubs ahead of a storm and handle clearing. String trimmers, pruners and chainsaws can also remove combustible material from around your home, making it less vulnerable to wildfires.

A portable generator will power key appliances and charge cell phones when utilities go down. Before an outage, plan where the generator will be set up. Never put a generator in a home or garage, and always away from your home and any air intake.

Before an outage, plan where the generator will be set up (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

Determine how to secure it if needed. Buy and install a carbon monoxide detector. Get outdoor-rated extension cords for portable generators and consider adding an approved cover to your generator for rainy weather. A whole house generator can keep the lights and appliances on and running.

Water pumps can help get water and muck out of basements and homes. Be sure you know how to operate the pump. Never pump substances that your equipment is not designed to cope with. Pay attention to avoid overheating and follow all safety precautions.

A utility type vehicle can transport people and supplies quickly in an emergency. Keep the vehicle stable and drive slowly. Do not turn mid-slope or while on a hill. Consider taking a safety course.

Store equipment operating supplies

Always read the directions provided by outdoor power equipment manufacturers. Be sure to follow all manufacturer’s safety and usage recommendations before you need it—not waiting until an emergency. Practice how to operate equipment. Save a digital copy of the owner’s manual on your computer for easy future consultation.

Make sure to have the right fuel on hand and charge batteries ahead of an outage. Gasoline-powered equipment uses E10 or less fuel and most manufacturers recommend adding a fuel stabilizer. Fuel more than 30 days old may phase separate and cause running problems, so it is important to purchase fuel just ahead of a storm. Store fuel safely, and only use an approved fuel container.

Make sure you have the correct batteries needed, and that they are charged before a storm (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

For battery-powered equipment, recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may not be compatible with another battery pack.

Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or equipment outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery.

Pay attention to your health

One of the most important things operators can do for safety is to pay attention to energy levels and health.

Preparation for bad weather, a power outage and storm cleanup can be taxing on the body and the spirit. Do not operate power equipment when tired or overly fatigued. Drink plenty of water and take regular breaks. Always use safety equipment like chaps, gloves, eye protection or hearing protection.

Utility companies work to restore power to over 374K customers after severe storms sweep through Michigan (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

By Deborah Reed

deborah@wktv.org

Widespread damage extends over Michigan after severe storms and suspected tornados tear across the state on Aug. 25.

75-mph winds left 374,000 Michigan utility customers without power on Friday, Aug. 25, from Grand Rapids to the southeast side of the state.

The storm damaged structures, took down trees and power lines, and resulted in closed roads for several hours.

The Grand Rapids National Weather Service reported that officials will be in the field Friday to conduct damage surveys on tornadoes suspected in central Kent County and northeast Ingham County.

Consumers Energy and DTE Energy have reported that crews are out and working to restore power.

What to do until power is restored

Storms took down trees, power lines, and damaged structures (Courtesy, www.pxhere.com)

Power outages can cause food spoilage, water contamination, disrupt communication and transportation, and prevent use of medical devices. Loss of power can also restrict consumer access to ATMs, banks, grocery stores, and other services.

Here are some safety tips provided by ready.gov in case of power outage:

Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you, and go to a community location with power if heat or cold is extreme.
Keep freezers and refrigerators closed to prevent food spoilage.
Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges – power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.
Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

Generators can be helpful when the power goes out, but it is important to know how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and other hazards.

Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.
Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can kill you, your family and pets.
Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or devices connected to one can cause electrical shock.
Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully.