Michigan has declared September as Preparedness Month, with state officials encouraging residents to create emergency plans and supplies following recent flooding and tornadoes that have damaged communities across the state.
The initiative promotes four key steps: knowing potential emergency types and appropriate responses, making a family emergency plan, building an emergency supply kit, and getting involved in community preparedness.
Michigan State Police director Col. James F. Grady II said: "While we can't prevent every emergency, we can prepare for them. Preparedness Month is a reminder to review your plans, build your emergency kit, and have the conversations that could make a critical difference during an unexpected event."
On Saturday, Sept. 12, the Michigan State Police and Lapeer County will host a Prepare Fair from noon to 3 p.m. at Home Depot in Lapeer. The free, family-friendly event will feature local and state agencies discussing emergency planning and preparedness supplies.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is encouraging residents to ensure animals have identification, go-kits, and access to food and medications during emergencies. The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services urged residents to review insurance policies, secure important documents, and create emergency funds to cover insurance deductibles.