(Photo courtesy DTE)

By Scott Bolthouse | The Huron Hub
ScottBolthouse@HuronHub.com
Published April 12, 2020 — 1:15 PM EST

DTE Energy is preparing for severe high winds forecasted for southeast Michigan through Monday that could cause a significant number of power outages.

Related: High wind watch issued for Wayne County

DTE said crews are on standby and ready to respond should high winds cause outages.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the utility company is taking extra measures to keep people safe, including wearing face masks, training employees and contractors on proper hygiene, practicing social distancing, and washing equipment between jobs.

“These are challenging times, and the health and safety of DTE customers and employees is the company’s top priority,” the company said in a statement. “DTE asks if people see crews in their neighborhoods, to please stay at least six feet back.”

DTE recommends taking a moment to get prepared by doing the following:

-Charge all mobile devices now and have extra battery packs on hand.
-Assemble an emergency kit, including flashlights, candles, a battery-powered radio, bottled water and non-perishable food.
-Keep your refrigerated and frozen food safe if there is an outage. Visit this link for more information on food safety.

If power goes out:

-Call DTE at 1-800-477-4747 to report the outage.
-Stay at least 20 feet away  from a  downed power line and be sure to keep children and pets away.
-Do not drive over downed power lines.
-Never use a portable generator inside your home.  It emits carbon monoxide, which can be deadly. Keep it outside, away from windows and doors so the fumes won’t come in.

You can find more tips at dteenergy.com/safety.