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Preparing for and Responding to Power Outages

Downed power lines from ice and snow winter storm
Michigan Public Service Commission

Preparing for and Responding to Power Outages

Power outages can occur at any given time, and it is important to know what to do to prepare and protect yourself when one occurs. Whether an outage lasts minutes, hours, or a few days, this guide can help keep your home and family safe.

emergency power outage in the house. woman with a flashlight looks

Are you prepared?

A power outage can occur unexpectedly disrupting communications, water, and transportation while also causing food to spoil and prevent the use of medical devices. Using a checklist can help keep you and your family safe during an outage. If you are dependent on a medical device that requires electricity, please contact your utility. 

Reporting an outage

When your power goes out, check your main electrical panel to see if a breaker tripped. If not, the problem is likely a local power outage. Are street lights out? Are other houses dark? Contact your local utility provider to report the outage. 

man sitting in dark kitchen and using mobile phone during energy blackout.

Outage History

When a utility is experiencing outages beyond a threshold level, they report their status to the MPSC. The MPSC uses this information to monitor restoration activities and coordinate with utilities and local emergency responders when help is needed.

transformer on a pole and a tree laying across power lines over a road

Safety

If your power goes out, follow these safety guidelines to keep you and everyone in your household safe. If you are dependent on a medical device that requires electricity, please contact your utility.

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Warming Centers

Looking for a warming center because your power is out? Call 211, check with your local government offices, or use one of the links below to find the center closest to you.  

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Outage Credits

Do you have frequent or lengthy outages? You may be eligible for a credit.