Michigan State Police gives drivers winter storm emergency tips

IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WLUC) – Hazardous winter conditions are expected on Friday and Saturday throughout Upper Michigan.

Iron Mountain’s Michigan State Police Post is offering tips to drivers needing to commute through the snow.

Michigan State Police Trooper Geno Basanese said staying safe on the roads may mean accounting for a longer commute.

“Every first snowfall we will see quite a few vehicles in the ditch,” said Basanese. “It’s the speed thing people just don’t adjust. Got to leave a little extra time, give yourself that.”

Basanese says to stay in the vehicle if you become trapped on the road.

“What we want you to do is not go walking around,” said Basanese. “Part of that is knowing where you are or at least the general area so that way when you call 911 for help, the emergency personnel at least have an idea of where you are.”

There could also be power outages caused by strong winds or ice storms.

We Energies Spokesperson Amy Jahns said carbon monoxide can be a hidden threat during a snowstorm.

“Anyone who has vents and meters outside their home, your dryer vents, your furnace vents, make sure that snow does not cover up those vents because when they are plugged up, they are not able to get the exhaust out that they need to get out which can then cause carbon monoxide issues in your home,” said Jahns.

Downed powerlines can be reported to We Energies by phone or on their website.

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