A special event is coming to Howell to help prepare residents and their families for natural disasters.

In just 2 years, the Family Readiness Expo has become the largest of its type in Michigan. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, September 9th at the Livingston County EMS Building beginning at 9:30am. As Hurricane Harvey is wreaking havoc on the Gulf coast, organizer Jay Drick is reminding residents of the windstorm that hit Livingston County on March 8th and left many without power in the bitter cold for 4 days. Drick said that it is important to prepare for the worst in case during a disaster that FEMA or the county won’t be able to get help to you as soon as the crisis hits. He said that could mean being low on supplies like food, water, and gas; and suggested having some stockpiled. Drick said knowledge of what to do 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc and having an emergency list is very smart and self-sufficient.

16 speakers will give presentations over the 8 hour day in 2 different classrooms. Sheriff Mike Murphy will host in one classroom, with Retired U.S. Army Ranger Jim Rutherford in the other. While parents are participating in the discussions, kids can take free tours of ambulances, firetrucks, a sheriff’s tactical vehicle, a survival jet, and a survival helicopter. The event is free and additional parking, which was needed last year, will be available at the airport with free shuttle service to and from the event. More information can be found online through the link below. (MK)