(WXYZ) — As the region braces for a heavy wintry mix, DTE Energy says it's prepared to respond and restore customers' power if it goes out.
DTE says preparations for potential New Year's Day storms started at the beginning of the week.
"We've been watching the volatile weather that down that is south and west of us," said George Mundorf, DTE Storm Director. "And we saw the other weather pattern come through on Wednesday."
DTE Storm Director George Mundorf says that preparation includes having additional crews on standby and giving them enough time to respond quickly and safely, working to get people's electricity restored.
"We're expecting much less than a half-inch of accumulation today. But we're prepared to address issues if they arise," said Mundorf.
Issues like downed power lines. If you come across any be very careful. DTE says to stay at least 20 feet away from all power lines and anything they may be touching it. Always consider them to be live and don't ignore caution tape.
"These types of weather conditions often increase the likelihood of downed power lines and tree-related power outages," said Mundorf. "Ice accumulation on power lines can cause extreme stress – a half-inch of ice accumulation adds 500 pounds to the span of a power line. That's the weight of a baby grand piano."
If you're a DTE customer and find yourself without power, contact DTE to report the outage.
You can do that in one of three ways: Use DTE Energy's mobile app, online at outage.dteenergy.com, or by calling 800-477-4747.
