Kalamazoo Times

As Florida begins the recovery process from Hurricane Ian, the state of Michigan has started sending resources to aid residents of the Sunshine State.

According to a news release issued by the state government, the state is ready to send the Michigan National Guard and Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) as Florida residents try to recover from Hurricane Ian.

Mary Lynn Foster, regional chief executive officer with the American Red Cross Michigan Region, said in the release that her organization is continuously involved in efforts to aid states like Florida and South Carolina who were ravaged by Ian.  

“We’ve deployed more than 30 volunteers from our Michigan Region who are providing care and comfort in shelters and five emergency response vehicles that will provide meals and water to people in communities impacted by the storm,” Foster said. “We are prepared to provide additional support to our ongoing relief efforts.”

“Michigan Humane is honored to represent the state of Michigan toward our collective efforts to assist those in need in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian,” Matt Pepper, Michigan Humane president and CEO, said in the release. “Our animal search and rescue team is among the most highly trained, qualified teams in the nation. People often sacrifice their own health and safety for that of their pets in times like this. Our efforts ensure they don’t have to.”

About 70,000 people reside in both Florida and Michigan. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said her state is supplying fire trucks, supporting crew members and helicopters.

“Michigan’s heart is with Florida residents as they recover from Hurricane Ian,” Whitmer said. “During difficult times, Michiganders step up. The state of Michigan stands ready to provide relief to Florida and other states predicted to be impacted by Hurricane Ian. I am proud of all the utility workers, Michigan Red Cross, Michigan Humane Society, and countless other volunteers for heading to Florida to tackle the tough work ahead.”

DTE Energy, International Transmission Company (ITC) and Michigan Municipal Electric Utilities are among the utilities and energy infrastructure companies that have been sent or are on standby. 

“DTE Energy answered the call for help by releasing 400 lineworkers to travel to Florida early in the week. These men and women were staged nearby and weathered the hurricane to be ready to begin restoration efforts as soon as it was safe,” Joseph Musallam, vice president of DTE electric distribution operations, said in the release.

“We’ve also alerted aid organizers in Georgia and the Carolinas that we will send additional DTE resources if needed," he added. "Our hearts are with the millions affected by this hurricane, and the thousands of utility workers from across the country who will be undertaking this dangerous and critical work.”