Whereas, Each year in the State of Michigan, countless people are injured or suffer property damage due to winter storms that bring extreme cold, freezing rain, and snow; and,

Whereas, Michigan citizens encounter winter hazards such as icy roads, frostbite from extremely cold temperatures, over-exertion from snow removal, and isolation within their own homes due to heavy snowfalls; and,

Whereas, The use of wood, kerosene, and space heaters as alternative heating methods greatly increases the probability of residential fires; and,

Whereas, Inclement winter weather requires that drivers take extra precautions to insure that they reach their destinations safely; and,

Whereas, The “Michigan Committee for Severe Weather Awareness” and other emergency management officials, in conjunction with the news media, are cooperating to educate the public about these hazards and how to prepare for them; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of November 6, 2005, as Winter Hazards Awareness Week in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to learn more about how to prepare for winter hazards to protect themselves, their families, and their homes during the winter season.