ATTENTION BEAVER ISLAND RESIDENTS: SAFETY REMINDER DURING STORM

Many residents have been without power as Beaver Island continues to experience severe storm conditions, with heavy ice accumulation on trees and poor driving conditions. Running a generator is an important option to keep homes powered during this time, but it is crucial to exercise caution.

Please remember: when using a generator, do not connect it directly to your home’s electrical system unless you have the proper transfer switch installed. Running a generator improperly can send electricity back down the power lines, which poses a serious hazard to the linemen working tirelessly to restore power.

These workers are risking their safety to get the power back on, and backfeeding electricity through the lines can result in deadly consequences for them. To ensure their safety, and to avoid any further complications, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your generator and make sure it is set up properly.

Beaver Island is known for its tight-knit community, and we all rely on each other in times like these. Let’s take extra care to protect both our families and those who are working hard to restore normalcy to the island.

Stay safe, stay informed, and together we will get through this storm.

In the event of an emergency, contact the local authorities.