Michigan Declares September as Preparedness Month Amid Increasing Emergency Disasters

Strategic Insights -

As communities across Michigan grapple with the aftermath of historic ice storms, spring tornadoes, and summer floods, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially designated September as Preparedness Month in the state. In a joint effort to raise awareness and encourage residents to prepare for emergencies, the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD), and other state agencies are teaming up with local and federal governments, as well as private and public organizations, under the theme "Preparedness Starts at Home." The campaign emphasizes the importance of taking simple yet crucial steps to prepare for any disaster, including knowing emergency risks, making a family emergency plan, building an emergency kit, and getting involved in the community to stay safe.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Michigan State Government has declared September as Preparedness Month to raise awareness about emergency preparedness.
  • The MSP/EMHSD, MDARD, and other state agencies are partnering with local and federal governments, as well as private and public organizations, under the theme "Preparedness Starts at Home."
  • The campaign encourages residents to take four key actions to prepare for emergencies: knowing emergency risks, making a family emergency plan, building an emergency kit, and getting involved in the community.
  • The Michigan State Police is urging residents to plan ahead and take simple steps to protect their families, including creating an emergency kit and making a family plan.
  • Tim Boring, director of MDARD, stresses the importance of including animals in emergency action plans by creating go-kits, familiarizing them with carriers or trailers, and equipping them with tags or microchips.
  • The MSP/EMHSD is hosting the 2025 Prepare Fair on September 30 at Heritage Landing in Muskegon, which will feature local agencies that respond to emergencies, family emergency planning, and emergency preparedness resources.

Statistics:

  • September has been officially designated as Preparedness Month in Michigan.
  • The MSP/EMHSD is partnering with multiple state and local agencies, as well as private and public organizations.
  • The campaign emphasizes the importance of taking simple steps to prepare for emergencies, including creating an emergency kit and making a family plan.
  • 2025 Prepare Fair attendees will have the opportunity to meet local and state first responders and volunteers.
  • The event is free of charge and open to anyone.

Sources:

  • Michigan State Government
  • MSP/EMHSD
  • MDARD
  • Governor Gretchen Whitmer
  • Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP
  • Tim Boring, director of MDARD