DETROIT — After severe rain and tornadoes battered Southeast Michigan, a Detroit resident is voicing concerns about the utility company’s response to a downed power line on her property. Ingrid Pollock says a transformer exploded behind her garage during the storm, leaving a live wire in her yard for roughly 36 hours.
Alleged delay in service
Pollock told local reporters that she called DTE Energy shortly after the transformer blew up, reporting a live wire that was electrifying her fence and posing a danger to her family and pets. She says multiple family members also placed calls, but assistance did not arrive until her son encountered DTE crews working on a nearby business on Joy Road.
According to Pollock, her son stopped the workers and asked why they were restoring power to the business instead of addressing the live wire in her yard. The crew followed him back to the house, inspected the situation, and then contacted DTE to request immediate action. She says the workers stayed until the downed line was removed, noting that the response was not an official DTE order.
DTE’s safety reminder
DTE Energy, when reached for comment, expressed sympathy for the loss of Pollock’s dog, Draco, and reiterated its safety protocols. The utility’s statement read in part: “Please treat every downed line as if it is energized, no matter how it looks. Stay at least 25 feet away from any line and anything it may be touching. Keep children and pets indoors and away from affected areas until crews have safely made repairs.”
Community context
The incident comes as Detroit residents continue to recover from the recent storm system that caused widespread power outages, property damage, and several emergency calls to utility providers. Local officials have urged homeowners to report downed lines promptly and to follow safety guidelines while waiting for crews.
Utility companies across the state have faced increased scrutiny over response times during extreme weather events. DTE has previously highlighted its investment in grid modernization and emergency response resources to improve service reliability.
What homeowners can do
Experts advise anyone who sees a downed line to avoid the area, keep pets and children away, and contact the utility’s emergency line immediately. Keeping a record of the call time and any follow‑up communication can help ensure a timely response.
For residents who experience prolonged delays, the Michigan Public Service Commission provides a complaint process to address concerns about utility service. The commission reviews complaints and can require utilities to take corrective action when necessary.
Looking ahead
Pollock hopes her experience will prompt DTE to review its dispatch procedures and prioritize safety hazards more quickly. “We just want to make sure no other family loses a pet or a loved one because of a live wire,” she said.
DTE reiterated its commitment to public safety and encouraged all customers to stay informed about storm preparedness and utility reporting guidelines.
Original reporting: Warren | FOX 2 Detroit — read the source article.
