State Police promotes Preparedness Month

Michigan residents should prepare for emergencies and disasters by making an emergency plan with their loved ones and learning life-saving skills like first-aid and CPR during Michigan's Preparedness Month, according to the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD).

Throughout September, the MSP/EMHSD is joining federal, state, and local governments, as well as private and public organizations, in supporting emergency preparedness initiatives and encouraging residents to take action to prepare. Agencies nationwide are uniting under the theme "Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can." to encourage everyone to create a family emergency plan and to learn skills needed to help themselves and others until help can arrive.

"Taking time to create an emergency plan or to learn basic first aid skills can save lives," said Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, deputy state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. "It's important that individuals and families plan now, so they are better equipped to react when an emergency of disaster strikes."

Residents are also encouraged to know the hazards that affect their communities and build an emergency supply kit. Businesses are encouraged to prepare for emergencies and disasters by establishing an emergency preparedness program.

All households should be self-reliant for at least three days by building an emergency preparedness kit supplied with food, water and medications. During an emergency or disaster, critical services-such as electricity, water service, or access to grocery stores-can be impacted and response for police, fire, and rescue personnel could be significantly delayed.

Since 2015, Gov. Rick Snyder has issued disaster declarations for incidents involving severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, and a sinkhole. On October 21, 2016, Snyder declared a state of disaster for Marquette County after storms, heavy rain, and flash flooding caused severe damage. On June 23 of this year, a disaster declaration was declared for Isabella and Midland counties after torrential rainfall and flash flooding caused widespread damage. On June 28, Bay and Gladwin counties were added to the declaration.

To take preparedness into action and commemorate Michigan's Preparedness Month, the MSP/EMHSD is collaborating with Cops & Doughnuts, Isabella County Emergency Management, Isabella County 911, Marquette County Emergency Management, Target, and the Westwood Mall in Marquette to host two 2017 Prepare Fairs.

- The first Prepare Fair will take place from 4-7 p.m. on Sept. 7 at the Westwood Mall, 3020 US-41, Marquette.

- The second Prepare Fair will take place from 4-7 p.m. on Sept. 21 at Cops & Doughnuts, 1327 S. Mission, Mount Pleasant.

Individuals attending the fair will learn about local emergency response agencies, how to develop a family emergency plan and how to create an emergency preparedness kit. Attendees will also be able to meet local first responders and volunteers. The event is free of charge and open to anyone.

To learn more about preparing for emergencies and disasters and making an emergency preparedness plan, or for more information about 2017 Prepare Fair go to www.michigan.gov/miready or follow the MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS.

Published: Tue, Sep 05, 2017