ISHPEMING — With winter weather causing power outages and hazardous driving conditions, the Michigan State Police would like to pass along some safety reminders.

With the multiple power outages since Christmas Eve the Michigan State Police would like to remind residents that ice accumulation is a serious threat to trees and utility lines and has the ability to cause widespread power outages.

To stay safe during a power outage follow these tips:

  • During and after a storm, stay at least 25 feet from any downed lines and assume that every line is “live” and dangerous.
  • If clearing trees or limbs, make CERTAIN they are not in contact with a power line.  Trees and branches can conduct electricity and electrocute you on contact.
  • Do not call 911 to ask about the power outage. Report outages to your utility company.
  • Never run a generator indoors.  Ensure it is outside and far away from windows or any other area where exhaust can vent back into a living area.  Carbon monoxide can cause injury or death.
  • Gas stations and ATMs may not be available if the power is out. Use these services prior to the storm.
  • Have an emergency preparedness kit ready with supplies to last three days per person (e.g., food, water, first aid kit, flashlight and radio with extra batteries, extra clothing and blankets).

The Michigan State Police would like to remind motorists that if they are traveling during times of harsh weather, they can go online to the following websites to check road conditions throughout the state.

www.michigan.gov/roadconditions

www.michigan.gov/drive

They could also call the MSP Travel Advisory Hotline at 1-800-381-8477.

They recommend checking the website before calling your local post or 911, and if conditions seem dangerous, reschedule or postpone the trip.