LANSING – There continues to be a great outpouring of people, businesses, and service organizations throughout Michigan and the rest of the country wishing to provide services to the counties and states affected by Hurricane Katrina.

At the direction of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the EMD is strongly urging all police, fire, emergency services departments, and other agencies here in Michigan not to respond without being requested and lawfully dispatched by state and local authorities under mutual aid agreements and the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). Formal requests for assistance will be coordinated through the Emergency Management Division utilizing EMAC, which is a national mutual aid agreement and partnership between states and territories that offers state-to-state assistance during emergencies. Once state officials receive a request, EMD will work within established protocols to provide the needed resources as quickly as possible.

“It is so important at this time we ensure any response be well coordinated in order for resources from the state of Michigan to be used most effectively,” stated Capt. Kriste Etue, commander of EMD and state deputy director of homeland security and emergency management. “The outpouring of support is overwhelming and we appreciate the kindness and willingness of Michigan’s citizens to offer assistance.

” Persons interested in helping the victims of Hurricane Katrina can best support the relief effort by making a monetary donation. Monetary donations allow charitable organizations the flexibility to purchase items needed most, and unlike material donations, cash donations entail little or no transportation, storage, or distribution. Monetary donations can be made at www.fema.gov under the “Make Donations” section or by contacting the American Red Cross at 1-800-HELP NOW (435-7669).