DETROIT – When the power goes out, do you know the best ways to keep your animal safe? The Michigan Humane Society provides the following tips and tricks for pet owners in the event of a power outage.
1. Make sure all pets are wearing collars and ID tags. Accidents can happen when the power goes out, and the easiest way for someone to return a pet to you is via the information contained on the tags. Tags should also contain your address in the event that your phone is not working at the time of the power outage.
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2. Keep pets warm and dry in winter, and cool in the summer. Pets react just as much as we do to changes in temperature, so make sure your furry friend is staying as comfortable as possible. Open windows and shade will help them keep cool in the summer, while moving your pets bedding to the center of the house will help retain more heat in the winter. In the event of more extreme temperature changes, it may be wise to board your animal at a veterinarian’s office or boarding facility until power is restored. You could also reach out to friends or family to see if they are able to accommodate your pet until the power is back on.
3. Make sure dry food is being kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This will prohibit bugs from getting into the food and mold from growing. Fresh, clean water should always be available to your pets. Pay attention to water alerts and advisories for your pets as well as your human family members.
4. Make sure your animals are only outside under supervision, and check the ground for downed power lines. There may be work crews in the area that can startle your animal, or pieces of fencing may need to be removed for repairs to begin. If you do see a downed power line, stay inside and report the line to your electrical company.
5. Keep your pet as close to their normal routine as possible. This will help eliminate some of the stress they experience from the power outage, and help to keep them calm. If your pet is currently on medication, seek assistance from your veterinarian if you have any concerns about being able to store it properly in the home.
If you are unable to provide care for your pet during a power outage, for any reason, contact your veterinarian to see what other options may be available to you and your pet.
Information and resources:
The DTE Energy App is back up and working - you can check the outage map on the app.
What Metro Detroit Areas got hit the hardest? ZIP code breakdown here.
How to prevent your pipes from freezing when you have no heat
Best tips for food safety during a power outage
School Closings in Metro Detroit here.
Safety precautions for using a generator to power your home
Part of the massive Michigan power outage? You could get a bill credit
Storm tips from DTE
- Never drive across a downed power line. If a power line falls on your vehicle, remain inside until help arrives.
- Always operate generators outdoors to avoid dangerous buildup of toxic fumes.
- Turn off or unplug all appliances to prevent an electrical overload when power is restored. Leave one light switch on to indicate when power is restored.
- Don’t open refrigerators or freezers more than absolutely necessary. A closed refrigerator will stay cold for 12 hours. Kept closed, a well-filled freezer will preserve food for two days.
- If a customer is elderly or has a medical condition that would be adversely impacted by a power outage, they should try to make alternative accommodations with family or friends.
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