Safety and security is important for families and residents, and one can never know when to expect a disaster or emergency.
With September being Michigan’s Preparedness Month, the Emergency Management Division of the MSP is wanting residents and families to be prepared.
The Emergency Management Division is encouraging residents to be prepared by making an emergency communications plan with family and friends. The MSP is teaming up with federal, state and local governments and private and public organizations to support emergency preparedness initiatives.
Michigan residents will soon see banners stating “Don’t Wait. Communicate. Make your Emergency Plan Today,” popping up as agencies nationwide are encouraging people to create a family communication plan.
“Preparing an emergency communications plan may seem like a big job—and many people don’t know where to begin,” said Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, Deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “It doesn’t have to be a chore. You can start by creating an up-to-date plan that outlines who to call, what to bring and where to go, and then sharing that plan with your family and friends.”
Residents are also encouraged to know the hazards that affect their communities and build an emergency supply kit. Businesses should prepare for emergencies and disasters as well, and establish an emergency preparedness program.
The MSP says all households should be self-reliant for at least three days by building an emergency preparedness it supplied with food, water and medications. During a disaster, critical services like electricity, water and access to stores can be impacted. Also, fire and police response times may be delayed in such an event.
For tips about making a kit, click here.
