Rogers, Croton and Hardy Dams Siren Tests To Be Conducted December 17

WASHINGTON D.C. – December 11, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Consumers Energy announced the emergency public warning siren systems near its Rogers, Hardy and Croton hydroelectric generating plants on the Muskegon River will be tested on Thursday, Dec. 17, at approximately 10 a.m.

The test will include a voice message, a 30-second siren and a second voice message. The public does not need to take any action during the tests. The siren systems are tested each August and December.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requires hydroelectric facilities to be able to quickly notify residents and visitors of any developing emergency at the plants.

In an emergency, the sirens would be used only if the threat of a dam failure is imminent at one of the facilities. At that time, anyone on or near the river should evacuate at once to high ground. Additional information would be provided on local radio and television stations.

Consumers Energy offers a safety caution to those who visit dams in the winter.
“Ice on a reservoir near a hydroelectric facility is not reliable and should be avoided by snowmobilers, anglers and others enjoying recreation,” said Bill Schoenlein, manager of hydro and renewable generation at Consumers Energy. “Also, ice-covered water down river from a hydroelectric facility should never be considered a safe place to walk.”

Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest utility, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and electricity to 6.6 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

Media Contacts: Terry DeDoes, 517-374-2159 or Brian Wheeler, 517-788-2394
For more information about Consumers Energy, go to www.ConsumersEnergy.com.