With violent weather on the way, I&M offers tips to be prepared, stay safe

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- With heavy storms and a Tornado watch issued for most of Michiana, the Indiana and Michigan Power service has shared their tips for bad weather and outages that may result from it.

"Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected across the Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) service territory this afternoon and into this evening," the company said. "We are closely monitoring the weather system and have lineworkers, damage assessors, tree trimming experts and contract crews ready to respond if needed."

Currently, the storms are predicted to bring up to 60-70 mph winds, which could lead to downed trees, power outages, local flooding and travel problems.

Be Prepared: 

• Charge Devices: Charge phones, laptops, tablets and other electronics to keep you connected. Be sure to have a back-up power source, like a portable charger.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: It should include non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, first-aid kit and medications.
• Make a Plan in Case of Extended Outages: Check with elderly neighbors and those with medical conditions to ensure they have a plan.

Stay Safe:

• Never touch downed power lines.
• Don’t remove tree limbs or debris if it’s within 10 feet of a power line. Power lines carry enough electricity to cause serious or fatal injuries. If you see downed lines or sparking equipment, call 911 or I&M at 1-800-311-4634, or call 911.
• DO NOT approach our crews or trucks you may see in your neighborhood to ask about power restoration. Doing so could jeopardize your safety. Crews may not see you and our employees are performing dangerous work with electricity.
• When using a generator, connect all appliances directly to the generator. Don’t connect the generator's electrical output to any home or building electrical circuits. Don’t use gas-powered generators in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces, like inside a garage or a home.

Stay Connected:

• Report outages and monitor account with the I&M Mobile App.
• Enroll in text and email alerts.
• Monitor the location and status of outages.
• Following Indiana Michigan Power on Facebook, Instagram and X (formally Twitter).