Spring Storm Safety: Finding Shelter When You Need It Most
Spring in Ohio brings blooming flowers, longer days, and unfortunately, an increased risk of severe weather. Tornadoes, straight-line winds, and severe thunderstorms can pose significant dangers—especially if you live in a mobile home, upstairs apartment, or prefabricated home. These structures are not safe in high winds, making it critical to have a plan in place before storms arrive.
Why You Need a Shelter Plan
Mobile homes and prefabricated structures can be severely damaged or completely
destroyed by even moderate tornadoes and strong winds. Upstairs apartments also pose a risk since they lack reinforced protection. Since Clinton County has no designated public storm shelters, you must seek out a safe place before the threat arises.
Where to Take Shelter
Your best shelter options should be:
✅ Friends or family with a sturdy home – If possible, arrange ahead of time with a friend or relative who has a basement or a well-built, interior room in a site-built home.
✅ A neighbor with a basement or reinforced interior room – Establish a neighborhood safety plan. If your neighbor has a better shelter option, see if they are willing to accommodate you in an emergency.
✅ Your workplace (if it has a designated shelter area) – If a storm is approaching
while you are at work, find out if there’s a designated safe space.
✅ A nearby commercial building – Some businesses have reinforced restrooms or storage rooms. If you frequently shop at a grocery store or other retail establishment, check if they allow customers to shelter during emergencies.
✅ A community church or fire station – While they are not public shelters, some churches or fire stations have interior rooms that may offer better protection. This depends on availability and permission from the organization.
Distance and Travel Time Considerations
When selecting a shelter location, time is of the essence:
Choose a location within 5-10 minutes of your home – You need to get there quickly once warnings are issued.
If driving is necessary, ensure clear, quick routes – Heavy rain, debris, or road congestion can slow you down.
Plan ahead for night-time storms – Have your phone alerts on, and be ready to move fast if a storm develops overnight.
What to Bring in Your Emergency Go-Bag
Since you may need to move quickly, have an emergency bag ready to grab and
go with the following essentials:
👜 Personal Essentials:
Photo ID and important documents (copies or digital backup)
Keys (house and car)
Medications (at least a 3-day supply)
Phone charger & power bank
🍏 Food & Water:
Bottled water (at least one per person)
Non-perishable snacks (granola bars, trail mix)
🔦 Emergency Gear:
Flashlight & extra batteries
Weather radio
Small first aid kit
👕 Comfort Items:
Sturdy shoes (in case of debris)
Blanket or extra layers (for cold weather)
Ear protection (storms can be loud, especially for kids)
🦮 For Pets (if applicable):
Leash & carrier
Small food & water supply
Familiar comfort item (blanket, toy)
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
If you live in a mobile home, prefabricated home, or upstairs apartment, you must plan ahead for severe weather. Don’t wait until sirens sound—by then, it may be too late to travel safely.
✔️ Identify your shelter location now
✔️ Keep an emergency go-bag packed
✔️ Stay weather-aware, especially during spring storm season
Preparedness can save lives. Take action now so that when severe weather strikes, you already have a safe place to go.
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