National Preparedness Month
Each September Mid-Michigan District Health Department (MMDHD) participates in National Preparedness Month, and encourages individuals, families, businesses and communities to participate as well by preparing for the unexpected.
In Michigan, the unexpected is most likely to include extreme weather emergencies, such as tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, power outages, extreme heat and cold, and crippling winter storms; all of which can occur with little or no warning. Preparing for these and other emergencies, such as acts of terrorism or pandemic influenza, can make all the difference when seconds count.
Because emergencies can happen anytime and anywhere with little or no notice, the time to prepare is now. Make sure you are ready in case an emergency requires you to be self-reliant for three days without utilities and electricity, water, access to a grocery store, or maybe even without response from police, fire or rescue.
Preparing for the unexpected can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to. Start with these four important steps:
1. Get an emergency supply kit- When disaster strikes, you may need to survive on your own until help arrives. That’s why it’s so important to keep enough emergency supplies at home and in the car to last everyone in your household at least three days. The basic kit should include water, food and first aid supplies.
2. Make a family emergency plan- Plan in advance so you know how you would communicate with and find your loved ones if a disaster hit.
3. Be informed- Learn about the types of hazards and risks (both natural and man-made) that are most likely to happen in your area and their appropriate responses.
4. Get involved- Become active in preparedness efforts in your community. Visit www.mivolunteerregistry.org for more information.
Emergencies can range from inconvenient to devastating, but by following these simple steps in advance, you will minimize the impact on you, your family, your business, and your community as well as give yourself greater peace of mind.
Please visit www.ready.gov or www.do1thing.com for additional information.