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Prepare Now Keywords

SEVERE
WEATHER

The following actions are provided in the event your household, business, or organization does not have a written emergency plan on what actions to take.

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Two Days Prior to Severe Weather (or when Prepare Now Message (PNM) is received):

  • Review Current Weather Brief

  • Monitor active Advisories, Watches, and Warnings for Clinton County, Ohio

  • Review your family emergency plan during your next dinner to allow time for updates

  • Begin to stock up on ice in the event of a power outage.

  • Fill your refrigerator & freezer (minimize air space).  A full fridge and freezer retain cold better than a half-empty one. If needed, fill empty space with bottles of water or ice packs.

  • Use wireless thermometers for your refrigerator & freezer: Place appliance thermometers in both your refrigerator and freezer so you can check temperatures at a glance without opening the doors.

  • Freezer Preparation:

    • Organize by Priority: Place the most perishable items, such as meats and dairy, towards the bottom or back where temperatures stay lower longest.

    • Freeze Containers of Water: These act as ice blocks to help maintain freezing temperatures for an extended period.

    • Keep the Freezer Door Closed: Each time you open the freezer, warm air enters, accelerating thawing.

  • Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury/damage
    Check fuel/maintenance status of emergency generators (if equipped)

  • (Organizations) If you have an agreement for emergency "cold" storage at another location, confirm availability and storage conditions

  • (Organizations) Review your power outage plan (make pre-storm calls) for transport & storage or alternate power source(s)

  • (Organizations) Discuss departmental lessons learned from previous storms and power outages to prepare mitigations (if required)

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One Day Prior to Severe Weather:

  • Ensure mobile phones are fully charged throughout the day

  • If you have a portable power bank, charge it and take it with you (with your charging cable)

  • If you have a generator, check fuel levels and maintenance status (e.g., oil change, etc.)

  • If you have a family emergency kit, check the dates and status of items (e.g., change out old batteries, etc.)

  • Remember to store your emergency kit in the same location where you shelter

  • If you don’t have a family emergency kit, strongly consider making one

  • If you will be on the road, check your vehicle emergency kit

  • Sign up for emergency alerts if you haven't already

  • Ensure NOAA weather radio is programmed correctly

    • SAME Code for Clinton County, OH: 039027

    • Direct tuning: 162.550 or 162.475

  • Conduct an exterior check for potential windblown debris

  • Secure patio furniture, play equipment, yard decorations, trash cans, etc.

  • Check in on neighbors to make sure they are aware of the forecasted event

  • (All) Park vehicles in a location to protect the engine and windshield from damage (if possible)

  • (All) Top off fuel in vehicles

  • (Organizations) If utilizing manual backups for computers, do so now (USB drives, cloud backups, etc.)

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Day of Severe Weather:

  • Adjust the Temperature for your refrigerator/freezer: Set your refrigerator to at or below 40°F (4°C) and your freezer to 0°F (-18°C) before a storm or other anticipated outage.

  • Conduct a quick review with family, friends, or co-workers on sheltering procedures

    • Where would you go?

    • What should you do and NOT do?

    • How would you receive a notice/alert to take action?

    • If evacuation is needed, where would you go?

  • Pack a blackout cooler to help limit how often you open the refrigerator, preserving its cold temperature longer.

  • Know how to report storm damage for disaster assistance (beyond insurance reporting)

  • (All) Ensure refrigerated and frozen food safety measures are in place in case of a power outage

  • (All) Be aware of emergency alert notifications from multiple sources

  • (Organizations) Confirm backup power plans for temperature-controlled storage

  • (Organizations) Run auto-backups for critical files (where applicable) and shut down non-essential systems

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​Get up to speed with Food Safety following a power outage.  Learn more 👉 here 👈

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Immediate Actions Following a Storm (When Conditions Are Safe):

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1. Ensure Personal and Family Safety

  • Check yourself and family members for injuries and administer first aid if necessary.

  • Help others if you are able, especially neighbors who may need assistance.

  • Be aware of hazards such as downed power lines, broken gas lines, and unstable structures.

  • Stay away from damaged buildings until they have been assessed for safety.

 

2. Assess Your Home and Property for Damage

  • Inspect your home for structural damage (roof, walls, foundation, windows).

  • Check for gas leaks – If you smell gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and shut off the main gas valve if safe to do so.

  • Look for water damage from leaks or flooding.

  • Turn off power at the main breaker if you suspect electrical damage.

  • Take photos or videos of any damage for insurance and disaster assistance claims.

 

3. Check on Neighbors and Vulnerable Populations

  • Assist elderly or disabled neighbors who may need help.

  • Ensure children and pets remain safe and accounted for.

  • If you are in a community group or neighborhood watch, conduct welfare checks.

 

4. Report Damage and Hazards

  • Report power outages to your utility provider.

  • Report downed power lines to authorities; stay at least 30 feet away.

  • Report gas leaks immediately to the gas company.

  • If your home has sustained major damage, report it to your local emergency management office to support disaster assessment efforts.

 

5. Secure Your Home and Prevent Further Damage

  • Cover broken windows or roof damage with tarps or plastic sheeting.

  • Move valuables and important documents away from damaged areas to prevent further loss.

  • Shut off utilities if necessary to prevent fires, flooding, or further damage.

 

6. Monitor Emergency Communications

  • Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, local news, or emergency alerts for updates.

  • Be aware of secondary hazards, such as flash flooding or additional storms.

  • Follow instructions from local authorities regarding curfews, evacuation orders, or emergency services availability.

 

7. Be Cautious When Traveling

  • Avoid flooded roads – Do not drive through standing water.

  • Watch for debris, downed trees, and damaged bridges or roads.

  • Only travel if necessary to allow emergency crews to clear debris and restore services.

 

8. Check Refrigerated and Frozen Foods

  • If the power was out for more than four hours, check perishable foods.

  • Discard any food that has been above 40°F for two hours or more.

  • Use a thermometer to check food temperatures if uncertain.

 

9. Communicate with Family and Loved Ones

  • Let family members and friends know you are safe.

  • Use text messages instead of calls to reduce network congestion.

  • If you are separated, use emergency contact plans or meet at pre-designated locations.

 

10. Document and Start the Recovery Process

  • File insurance claims as soon as possible.

  • Keep receipts for any repairs or temporary lodging expenses.

  • Work with local officials and relief organizations for assistance if needed.

  • If applying for disaster aid, register with FEMA or local emergency management as required.

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POWER

OUTAGE

AES Outage Map

Duke Energy Outage Map

Clinton County Outage Totals (all providers)

Ohio Power Outages

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The following actions are provided in the event your household, business, or organization does not have a written emergency plan on what actions to take.

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BEFORE a Power Outage

Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. Determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage and how long battery backup will last.

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To prepare for a blackout or power outage, you should do the following.

  • To begin preparing, you should update or build an emergency kit and make a family plan.

  • If you are not signed up for free severe weather and emergency alerts, sign up now.

  • Pack a Blackout Cooler.  Fill a cooler with ice packs and frozen water bottles to keep perishable foods cold if power is lost.

  • Follow energy conservation measures to keep the use of electricity as low as possible, which can help power companies avoid imposing rolling blackouts.

  • Fill plastic containers with water and place them in the refrigerator and freezer, if there’s room. Leave about an inch of space inside each one, because water expands as it freezes. This chilled or frozen water will help keep food cold during a temporary power outage.

  • Be aware that most medication that requires refrigeration can be kept in a closed refrigerator for several hours without a problem. If unsure, check with your physician or pharmacist.

  • Keep your gas tank in your vehicle at least half full because gas stations rely on electricity to power their pumps.

  • If you have a portable generator, perform an inspection.​

  • If you have a portable power cell/battery/station, recharge it/them now.

  • If you have a standby generator, conduct your regular run-up test before the storm to ensure proper function.

  • Know where the manual release lever of your electric garage opener is located and know how to operate it. Garage doors can be heavy, so know that you may need help to lift it.

  • Keep a key to your house with you if you regularly use the garage as the primary means of entering your home, in case the garage door will not open.

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​Have Backup Power for Medical Needs a Power Outage

If you rely on CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, or refrigerated medications, have an alternate power plan:

  • Portable Generator (test and fuel check)

  • Solar Generator/Power Cell (ensure charged)

  • Battery Backups (UPS for short-term power)

 

Register with your power utility if you have life-sustaining equipment requiring electricity.

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​DURING a Power Outage

  • Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

  • Use a generator, but ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

  • Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.

  • Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

  • Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.

  • Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you.

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How to Protect Yourself During a Power Outage:

Go to a community location with power if heat or cold is extreme.

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Know Your Medical Needs

Talk to your medical provider about a power outage plan for medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Find out how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures and get specific guidance for any medications that are critical for life.

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Food Storage

Have enough nonperishable food and water. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary. Monitor temperatures with a thermometer. Throw out food if the temperature is 40 degrees or higher.  Learn more about Food Safety following a power outage 👉 here 👈

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Using Appliances During Power Outages

Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup in central locations on every level of your home. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home. Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment, or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.​​

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Returning AFTER a Power Outage

  • When in doubt, throw it out! Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture.

  • If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. Consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately for a new supply.

The following actions are provided in the event your household, business, or organization does not have a written emergency plan on what actions to take.

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BEFORE a Tornado

  • Know your area’s tornado risk. In the U.S., the Midwest and the Southeast have a greater risk for tornadoes.

  • Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar like a freight train.

  • Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, then become familiar with the warning tone.

  • Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.

  • Identify and practice going to a safe shelter such as a safe room built using FEMA criteria or a storm shelter built to ICC 500 standards. The next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room or basement on the lowest level of a sturdy building.

  • Plan for your pet. They are an important member of your family, so they need to be included in your family’s emergency plan.

  • Prepare for long-term stay at home or sheltering in place by gathering emergency supplies, cleaning supplies, non-perishable foods, water, medical supplies and medication.

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DURING a Tornado

  • Immediately go to a safe location that you have identified.

  • Pay attention to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.

  • Protect yourself by covering your head or neck with your arms and putting materials such as furniture and blankets around or on top of you.

  • Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle if you are in a car. If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms and cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible.

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AFTER a Tornado

  • Pay attention to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, and local authorities for updated information.

  • Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.

  • Report damage to your home (separate from insurance reporting) to help determine if the damage received by the community meets the threshold for Stafford Act disaster assistance.  Learn more about Damage Assessment and how to report it.

  • Wear appropriate gear during clean-up such as thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves, use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.

FLOODING

​Flooding poses a significant risk in Clinton County, Ohio, affecting various areas including streams, drainage systems, and residential properties with basements. Understanding these risks and implementing preventive measures are crucial for safeguarding property and ensuring personal safety.

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Areas at Risk:

  • Streams and Waterways: Clinton County has several streams and waterways that can overflow during heavy rainfall, leading to flooding in adjacent areas. Residents near these water bodies should remain vigilant during periods of intense precipitation.​

  • Drainage Systems: Both urban and rural areas can experience drainage-related flooding. In urban settings, heavy rains may overwhelm sewer and drainage systems, causing water to back up into streets and homes. Rural regions, characterized by flat topography and extensive networks of ditches and small streams, may face flooding when rainfall surpasses the capacity of these drainage systems. ​

  • Residential Basements: Homes with basements are particularly susceptible to flooding, especially if located in low-lying areas or regions with high groundwater levels. Water can infiltrate basements through foundation cracks, poorly sealed windows, or overwhelmed sump pump systems.

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Preventative Measures:

  • Stay Informed: Regularly consult flood maps and studies to understand the specific flood risks associated with your property. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources provides resources for accessing floodplain maps and related information. ​

  • Property Maintenance: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to facilitate proper water flow away from your home. Grade the landscape around your property to direct water away from the foundation.​

  • Install Sump Pumps: Equip your basement with a sump pump to remove accumulated water. Consider installing a battery backup to ensure functionality during power outages.​

  • Waterproofing: Seal cracks in the foundation and walls of your basement to prevent water ingress. Applying waterproof coatings can further protect against moisture penetration.​

  • Emergency Preparedness: Develop an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and communication strategies. Keep an emergency kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and medications.

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Shelter-In-Place

The following actions are provided in the event your household, business, or organization does not have a written emergency plan on what actions to take.  For use during a hazardous materials release or conditions are not safe whether you are at home, work or anywhere else you frequent regularly, there may be situations when it's best to stay where you are and avoid any uncertainty outside. 

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Note:  Shelter in Place should never be used during an active aggressor situation.   The correct form of protection to use during an active aggressor situation is called a LOCKDOWN.

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Actions:

  • Go inside as quickly as possible (seconds count).  Bring any pets indoors.

  • Lock all doors and windows for a better seal.

  • Turn off the air conditioner or furnace, all fans, close the fireplace damper and any other place that air can come in from outside.

  • Use duct tape and plastic to seal around doors and windows in the room where you take shelter.

    • Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to seal gaps so that you create a barrier between yourself and any contamination.

  • Plug/closed drains leading to sewers.

    • Move to an interior room with as few windows as possible.

  • Listen for current emergency information and instructions from authorities.

    • Watch TV and listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official news and instructions as they become available.

  • Do not drink water from the tap.  Stored drinking water will be safer.

  • Do not reopen doors or windows until directed.

  • Do not allow others to enter your home after you have initiated SIP.  They could be contaminated and compromise your household.

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“Sealing a room” is considered a temporary protective measure to create a barrier between you and potentially contaminated air outside. This type of sheltering in place requires pre-planning by purchasing plastic sheeting and duct tape that you would keep in your emergency supply kit.

Lockdown
Active Aggressor

The following actions are provided in the event your household, business, or organization does not have a written emergency plan on what actions to take.

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RUN

  • Get away - That is your top priority!

  • Leave belongings behind.

  • Help others if you can, but you must escape.

  • Warn others to stay away from the area.

  • Call 9-1-1 when you are safe.

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HIDE

  • Stay out of the shooter’s view.

  • Lock and block entrances and turn off lights.

  • Groups of people should spread out when hiding.

  • Text 9-1-1 and text message others to silently communicate.

  • Stay in place until given the-all-clear signal.

  • Silence electronic devices and make sure they don’t vibrate. Devices that buzz or ring will bring attention to places of hiding.

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FIGHT

  • Commit to your actions. Fight. Do not hesitate.

  • Be prepared to inflict severe injury to the aggressor/shooter.

  • Throw objects or improvise weapons (staplers, scissors, chairs).

The following actions are provided in the event your household, business, or organization does not have a written emergency plan on what actions to take.

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​BEFORE a Winter Weather/Blizzard Warning

  • Understand the impacts of severe winter weather and your community (i.e. delayed or no first responder assistance, Snow Emergencies, potential for power outage, and cold weather injuries).

  • Review your household emergency plan (where to go, who to call, what to do, et cetera).  If you don't have one, make one.

  • Inventory your pantry and food supplies.  Make a list of non-perishable items you need to stock up on (not just milk & bread for those milk-bread sandwiches), but batteries and more.  Do not wait for last minute shopping trips (typically the panic shopping crowd).  3-days minimum of supplies, but EMA would always recommend something closer to 15-days.

  • Check your snow-removal equipment and supplies (e.g. shovel, salt, gas, et cetera).

  • Inventory and check your winter clothing to ensure you have everything at the ready, in the event you need to replace a pair of gloves.

  • Check your water storage capability (in the event of a water main break).  Calculate one gallon per person/pet, per day.

  • Be a good neighbor and check on those in your neighborhood.  

  • Check your home:

    • Furnace to ensure working properly (recommend at the start before winter).​

    • [Fireplace] Check your firewood, fire starters, and matches.  Ensure fireplace and chimney are clear of debris and that smoke can easily exit.

    • If you use fuel oil, check level and resupply as needed.  

    • Check pipes in the basement (heat tape) and outdoor faucets (insulated faucet covers), and invest in pipe insulation to prevent frozen pipes.

    • Consider weather-sealing windows and doors to prevent heat loss, cold drafts, and other insulation issues. Weather-stripping, tape, and window wraps are available at most hardware stores. Make sure that exterior-facing walls and doors are also checked for leaks.

    • Prepare for power loss.  

    • Have a generator ready in case of power loss (portable emergency or standby generators). In the winter, lost heat can be deadly, and power outages are common in heavy snowstorms.  During emergencies, don't plan on trying to run your entire house with one generator—just focus on the essentials like the furnace, refrigerator, stove, and power to keep communication devices charged.

    • Check your emergency heat methods (e.g. propane heater, candles, et cetera).  Ensure you have a fire extinguisher readily available for use and it is in proper working condition.

    • Winterize your car emergency kit (e.g. include extra warm clothing, shovel, traction aids/material, snow scraper, et cetera).

    • Ensure you are signed up for emergency alerts to know if a local Snow Emergency has been declared and any important local warnings.

  • Prep your car.  Before the snow starts, fill your car up with gas and lift your wipers. Lifting your wipers before a storm will make it easier to clean the ice and snow from your windshield afterwards. Also, it will prevent the wipers from sticking to the glass and becoming damaged.

  • Ensure you know the expectations and rules of your employer during a Snow Emergency. ​

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DURING a Winter Weather/Blizzard Warning

  • Don't drive until it's safe to do so.

  • Don't heat your home with stoves or charcoal grills.

  • Don't drink alcohol to stay warm.

  • If you MUST go, call before you go to ensure there will be someone at your destination.  Just because you need milk to make milk-bread sandwiches, doesn't mean that the store will be open.

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AFTER a Winter Weather/Blizzard Warning

  • Blizzards and winter storms can be devastating in many ways. After the storm is over, take stock of your family's wellbeing and your resources. Replace what you used from your emergency kits quickly and offer to help neighbors that may be having a difficult time cleaning up or getting back on track.

  • Once power has returned, replace the gasoline you may have used in your snow-blower, generator, or vehicle. Inspect the same things you checked before the storm to make sure they are still working properly (sump pump, furnace, etc.). Then, ensure that your home's exterior was not damaged during the blizzard.

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