Power Outages

During a power outage, U-M requires evacuation of facilities (except Michigan Housing and Michigan Medicine inpatient facilities) after one hour. Emergency lighting only covers exits and stairways. Contact your school or college directly to find out if your classes are canceled.

Follow evacuation procedures. If you are a member of a Building Incident Response Team, assist in evacuating other building occupants.

• Make an “emergency preparedness kit” that includes first aid supplies, batteries, a flashlight, snacks and bottled water.
• Have a backup plan if anything you rely on (such as a medical device) is power-dependent. This plan may include extra batteries or even a generator.
• Monitor the weather every day. Knowing the forecast makes it easier to plan, as many power outages result from severe weather.
• Find out where the closest cooling and warming stations are—they can keep you safe during a summer or winter power outage.
• If you suspect a power outage may occur:
  • Make or buy enough ice to keep your food cool until the power returns.
  • Charge your phone and other battery-operated devices.
  • Fill your vehicle with gas.
  • Stock up on non-perishable food and drinking water.

• Contact your electrical company to determine the scope and probable duration of the outage.
• Use flashlights for emergency lighting rather than candles, lighters or other open flames that could start a fire.
• Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed to help ensure your perishable food lasts longer.
• Unplug all appliances and other electronics in case of a power surge.
• If you have an electrical generator, do not operate it indoors or in your garage. Doing so puts you at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning.
• If downed power lines are in your area, do not approach or touch them; immediately contact your electrical company.
• If it is dangerously cold or hot, take shelter at a local warming or cooling station.
• If you have to drive, be careful. Traffic lights may not be operating, and downed trees and utility lines may be present.

• If any power lines remain down in your area, do not approach or touch them.
• Throw away food exposed to temperatures of 40°F (4 °C) for two hours or more, as eating it could make you sick.
• Replace any used items in your emergency preparedness kit.