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DTE Energy To Customers: We're Prepared, Will Continue To Provide Safe, Reliable Service

MICHIGAN (CBS DETROIT) - DTE Energy has activated company-wide plans to address the implications of a coronavirus outbreak in Michigan while ensuring reliable energy service.

DTE's business continuity and pandemic plans are designed to protect people and ensure energy operations and infrastructure are supported properly. The company will take additional precautions to protect the public and employees when work is required at local businesses and residences.

"We care deeply about the communities in which we live and serve — our top priority is the health and safety of our employees and customers," said Jerry Norcia, president and chief executive officer. "We are working with state officials and local authorities to support the communities we serve in our collective efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Pandemic planning is one of 96 such plans DTE has in place to ensure public safety and uninterrupted energy service during a crisis or other unforeseen scenarios."

To protect employees DTE is taking the following protocols:

  • Cancelling non-essential business travel
  • Asking employees to self-identify, if they have travelled to a high-impact area
  • Reinforcing good hygiene practice
  • Restricting all visitors and suppliers to DTE facilities
  • Using technology for meetings and cancelling all large assemblies
  • Directing employees, who can, to work remotely when possible

In addition, when on site with customers, DTE employees will taking the following precautions:

  • Wearing nitrile gloves to prevent hand contact with home or office surfaces;
  • Wiping down and disinfecting areas where work is done; and
  • Applying the recommended social distancing of six feet from others to prevent person-to-person transmission.

DTE is in direct and continuous contact with state of Michigan's Emergency Operations Center and local health officials in Michigan and other states where the company operates.

© 2020 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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