Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has declared September as Preparedness Month in Michigan and encourages citizens to begin preparing before an emergency.  A disaster can strike at any time, as evidenced by recent tornados that struck on August 24 leaving several communities across the state to pick up the pieces.

"Simple preparations can help us avoid confusion and chaos in case of an emergency, and will potentially save lives," Governor Granholm said. "Michiganians should take time this month to prepare for potential threats so that every citizen is ready if disaster strikes."

This year marks the fourth annual National Preparedness Month, organized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to encourage Americans nationwide to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and schools. 

Although 91 percent of Americans said it is important to be prepared for emergencies in a 2006 study by The Ad Council, only 55 percent have actually taken steps to prepare.  One of the simplest steps individuals and families can take is creating an emergency supply kit. 

Items for a basic emergency supply kit:

• Water, at least three gallons of water per person

• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food per person

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• Clothing and bedding

• First aid kit

• Whistle to signal for help

• Family documents such as insurance policies and identification cards

"This month I challenge our families, businesses and schools to take the steps necessary to prepare for an emergency, whether that be by developing an emergency supply kit, a communications plan or a designated place to meet family," said Colonel Peter C. Munoz, Director of the Michigan State Police (MSP) and State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.  "Michigan strives to ensure all citizens have the necessary education and resources to remain safe during an emergency situation, but only you can make sure you are ready."

During the month of September, the State of Michigan will focus on four different areas of emergency preparedness identified by DHS.  The weekly focus areas include:

• September 1-8: Back-to-School

• September 9-15: Business preparedness

• September 16-22: Multicultural preparedness

• September 23-30: Home and family preparedness

Several agencies and organizations within the State of Michigan, including the MSP Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (EMHSD), are registered National Preparedness Month coalition members and have planned local events to help Michigan citizens prepare.  Citizens are encouraged to check with their local emergency management office about local events.  For a list of local emergency management offices, visit the MSP EMHSD Web site at www.michigan.gov/emhsd.

To learn simple ways to prepare for an emergency, visit the Michigan Prepares Web site at www.michigan.gov/prepare.