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(FOX 2) - On Wednesday, in the middle of several hours' worth of subzero temperatures, Consumers Energy asked all customers to reduce their gas usage by turning the thermostat down to 65.
They, along with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, are asking as a precaution after an unexpected fire at a Consumers facility in Macomb County Wednesday morning.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer held a press conference at 10 p.m. to ask everyone in the Lower Peninsula to turn their thermostats down. An emergency mobile alert from Consumers also asked customers to do the same, and an email was sent out to customers as well.
Consumers said the fire happened around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at a compressor station. Nobody was hurt and the cause of the fire isn't known yet.
Meanwhile, all gas flow from the station has been shut in until it's deemed safe. Storage fields in Northville and St. Clair are helping deliver natural gas to customers right now, Consumers said it its email.
At 10 a.m. Thursday, Consumers said repairs are ongoing at the Ray Compressor Station, and that those making a gas conservation effort are "making a difference." They're still asking for everyone's cooperation through Friday, Feb. 1.
General Motors, Ford Motor Co. and Fiat Chrysler have all either closed or reduced shifts Thursday morning at certain plants to help conserve gas usage as well.
Consumers offered the following advice for reducing gas usage:
LOOK AT THERMOSTAT SETTINGS: Save energy while staying warm by setting your heat to a lower temperature. Use your programmable thermostat to set your heat at 65 degrees when you are home and 62 degrees when you are away for less than 5 hours.
BUSINESS REDUCTION OF PROCESSES: The company is also encouraging industrial and business customers to temporarily reduce processes.
SEAL & SHUT WINDOWS AND DOORS: Check for leaks in your windows and doors by feeling around for cool air. Also, please ensure all windows and doors are closed tightly.
For more information or tips, visit: www.consumersenergy.com/coldweather.