Outage Center | Consumers Energy (2024)

FAQs

How do you respond to a power outage? ›

Outages typically last 1-2 hours.

The outage map also includes detailed information about specific outages, such as the cause and estimated time of restoration. Alternatively, you can also call their customer service number at 1-800-DIAL DWP (800-342-5397) to find out if there is an existing power outage in your area.

Build or buy an emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies. Make sure you have alternative charging methods for your phone or any device that requires power. A crank or solar powered radio/flashlight/cell phone charger is a good alternative to battery powered ones.

Depending on the amount of water remaining in the pipes, you might be able to flush your toilet several times while the power is out. Eventually, however, your tank won't fill up anymore because the pumps are down. When this happens, you will need to flush your toilet manually by pouring in a bucket of water.

Here are the ways to say - when there is no power: The power is out. There is a power cut.

It's perfectly safe to shower during an outage or storm. The main risk is that showering in the dark increases your risk of slipping and falling, which is why you should have a battery-powered light in your bathroom. It's a safer alternative to candles and gas lamps that represent a fire hazard.

Televisions, computer equipment, game consoles, fans, lights and all other smaller appliances should be unplugged, especially if they were in use when the power went out. Larger appliances, such as refrigerators, should not be unplugged.

As the USDA notes in Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency, your refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours during a power outage. Keep the door closed as much as possible. Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers after 4 hours without power.

All water heaters use electricity for some of their functions. Natural gas based water heaters generate their own electricity, but electricity-based water heaters must have the power supplied. No power means no hot water. If you have heated water in a tank, it may stay warm for a little while after the power goes out.

How do you check if there is no electricity? ›

Use a receptacle voltage tester by plugging the device into the outlet. The lights on the device will come on to indicate the presence of a live electrical current. Test an electrical outlet with a non-contact voltage tester by holding the tester about an inch away from the short slot on the outlet.

Wool blankets are the best for staying warm, and keeping your head covered with a hat will help as well. Sleeping Bags – Blankets are good for on the couch, but at night, you'll want to sleep in a good-quality sleeping bag to trap all that body heat right where it belongs.

Whatever gas that is in your car the moment the power grid fails is all the gas you will have. Gas pumps need electricity to run. Without gas, you will be stranded as well as city buses, trucks that haul supplies across the country and even government vehicles like cop cars and ambulances.

Walkie talkies or multi-pack handheld radios may be an option to communicate short distances. Satellite phones are an expensive but reliable way to communicate when power is out and can be purchased online.

One of the first things you should do during a power outage is unplug any appliances or electronics to avoid power surge damage once the power is restored. Sensitive devices should be on surge protectors to prevent damage if you can't unplug them in time.

Dear [Customer's Name], We are experiencing a utility failure that is currently impacting our energy services. We understand the inconvenience this can cause and assure you that our team is working diligently to rectify the issue. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this time.