State police outline vacationing tips

Published 8:34 am Tuesday, June 10, 2014

LANSING — With the weather warming and schools recessing for the summer, the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) is encouraging Michiganders to prepare for emergencies that may happen while on vacation.

“Summer is the time of year when families and individuals typically take extended vacations and road trips,” said Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, Deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “Whether traveling across the state or across the nation, you should prepare in advance for all types of emergencies or disasters that could impact your vacation destination. A little planning could be a lifesaver if a disaster strikes while away from home.”

To prepare for an emergency or disaster while on vacation:

• Know all weather-related emergencies and disasters that are common to your vacation destination. And learn how weather warnings are communicated.

• Monitor the weather forecast along highway routes. Delay the trip if severe weather is possible.

• Know safe shelter locations and evacuation routes at the campgrounds, hotels or resorts. Pack a travel-size emergency preparedness kit that includes water, snacks, first aid kit, and hand-crank flashlight and radio. Do not forget to include prescription medications and baby formula, if needed.

• Download American Red Cross mobile apps to your smart phone. For more information, go to http://www.redcross.org/prepare/mobile-apps.

• Have someone check on or take care of your pets in case severe weather or a disaster strikes while away.

• Always keep the vehicle’s fuel tank above half full. Power outages or severe weather may prevent you from refueling.

• Have a map and familiarize yourself with the area of your destination. Do not rely on cell phones or computers as your only navigation source.

To learn more about being prepared before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit the MSP/EMHSD on

Twitter at @MichEMHS or go to www.michigan.gov/beprepared