Dear Friend,

With sub-zero temperatures and difficult driving conditions forecast across Michigan today and the rest of the week, I want to make sure everyone has the resources and information they need to stay safe and warm.  

Michiganders can all handle a little snow and ice, but we must take precautions to keep ourselves, our families, and our communities safe. By using and sharing the resources below, we can get through these cold conditions together.   

Sincerely,

Gretchen Whitmer

Governor

Protect Yourself – Be “Winterwise”

With the risk of icy roads and extremely low temperatures, the Michigan State Police encourage Michiganders to make a plan for winter weather emergency preparedness. To learn more about how to prepare for winter weather emergencies, check out the MIREADY Winter Weather Preparedness page at michigan.gov/miready. 

Driving during bad winter weather is not recommended, but often unavoidable. If you have to drive in bad conditions, drive slowly, follow tips from the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning on how you can be safe on the roads, and stock your car with emergency supplies. 

Cold Weather Safety Tips

To stay safe during this extreme cold, the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division recommends the following:

• Limit time outdoors. If you must go outside, wear several layers of warm clothing and watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.
• Frostbite symptoms: Numbness, loss of feeling, pale or waxy skin, especially on the face, fingers, and toes.
• Hypothermia symptoms: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, slurred speech, or drowsiness.
• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Use generators and grills only outdoors and away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
• Avoid overexertion. Shoveling snow can put extra strain on your heart, so take it easy and avoid sudden bursts of activity.
• Check on others. Older adults, young children, and pets are especially vulnerable to extreme cold and should be checked on regularly. Keep pets indoors.
• Prepare for travel emergencies. If you must drive, ensure your gas tank is full and your vehicle is stocked with an emergency kit, including warm clothing, blankets, gloves, hats, and a phone charger.
• If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help rather than attempting to walk in the cold.

Be "Winterwise"

The Michigan Public Service Commission offers excellent tips on how we can all be proactive about conserving energy and being “winterwise.” Some of these tips include: 

1. Shut-Off Protection – Senior citizens, low-income customers, those with a medical emergency or in critical care, and military personnel may qualify for heat shut-off protection. Contact your utility company for more information.
2. Plan Ahead – Many utility companies have Budget Billing Plans that can spread out your peak winter heating bills, allowing for a more affordable monthly bill during the heating season. Contact your utility company for more information.
3. Use Energy Wisely – Reduce your energy use using these helpful tips.
4. Request Assistance – Qualifying seniors and low-income customers may be eligible for financial assistance. Call 2-1-1 or visit mi211.org to learn about agencies in your county that can help you with your utility bill.
5. Be Proactive – Contact your utility company as soon as you know you will be unable to pay your bill on time. Do not wait for a shut-off notice.
6. Be Helpful – Share this information with family and friends! If you are able, you can donate to organizations that provide energy assistance for families in need.

Utility Assistance Programs

Winter can become stressful with high utility costs. Low-income Michiganders may qualify for assistance through MEAP. We are prepared to ensure everyone across the state stays warm this winter.

• State Emergency Relief – State Emergency Relief is a crisis intervention program that provides assistance for energy-related expenses like heating fuel, electricity, and home repairs. Those who can demonstrate need are encouraged to apply online through MI Bridges.

• Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) – The Michigan Public Service Commission administers the MEAP. The purpose of the MEAP is to establish and administer statewide programs that provide energy assistance and self-sufficiency services to eligible low-income households. To seek help, contact 2-1-1 or your utility company to find programs in your area.

• Weatherization Assistance Program – The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free home energy-conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. These services can reduce energy use and lower utility bills. Some of the services include insulation, air leakage reduction, smoke detectors, and dryer venting. These services are conducted by local Community Action Agencies and non-profit organizations. You can contact your local weatherization operator to start the application process.

Warming Centers Across the State

If you or your family need a place to escape the cold, make sure to find a warming center in your area. Below are links to warming centers across the state.

For assistance with housing or shelters that are not listed below, do not hesitate to reach out to my office at 517-335-7858.

• Detroit
• Macomb County
• Ann Arbor
• Pontiac
• Lansing
• Marquette
• Grand Rapids
• Flint