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✅ What Do I Do Now?

 

Severe storms can be scary and confusing. You might not know what to do first. This checklist is here to help you take the right steps, one at a time. It will guide you on how to stay safe, check your home, help your neighbors, report damage, and begin cleaning up. Go slowly, follow each step, and remember—you're not alone. Help is available if you need it.​
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Post-Storm Checklist for Clinton County Residents

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1. 🚨 Is Everyone Okay?

  • If someone is injured, provide first aid to your ability.

  • Call 911 for serious injuries or life-threatening emergencies.

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2. 🏠 Check Your House for Damage:

  • Look for:

    • Roof damage or missing shingles

    • Broken windows

    • Flooding or water leaks

    • Structural cracks or instability

    • Smoke, gas odors, or electrical sparks

  • If you smell gas, leave immediately and call your gas provider or 911.

  • Stay away from downed power lines—assume they are energized. Report them to DP&L (AES Ohio) or 911.

  • 👥 Gather your household and brief the situation and immediate plan:

    • Decide who will check on which neighbors and how to respond if help is needed.

    • Identify hazards (e.g., downed wires, damaged structures, blocked roads).

    • Review how to avoid or mitigate dangers, such as staying clear of unstable trees or avoiding flooded areas.

    • Confirm everyone understands where to go, how to communicate, and next immediate steps.

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3. 🔎 Check On Your Neighbors:

  • Especially elderly individuals, people with disabilities, or those without communications.

  • Offer assistance if safe to do so, or notify first responders if help is needed.

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4. 🧭 Review Household Plan & Assess Utilities:

  • Review your emergency plan and activate power outage actions:

    • Limit fridge/freezer access to preserve cold food and medicine.

    • Use coolers and ice packs if backup power is unavailable.

    • Power phones only as needed to conserve battery.

  • Assess all utility services (power, water, gas, sewer):

    • Shut off utilities if unsafe or if instructed.

    • Use stored water or sanitation supplies if needed.

    • Operate generators safely and only outdoors, 20+ feet from openings.

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5. 📡 Implement Your Communications Plan (As Conditions Allow):

  • Update your out-of-town contact so loved ones are aware of your status—this helps reduce repeated check-ins.

  • Conserve power and data—limit unnecessary calls or streaming if you're without power.

  • Use text messaging or group chats to communicate where possible.

  • Ensure your devices stay charged, especially if backup power options are limited.

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6. 📸 Take Pictures of Damage:

  • Document everything: exterior, interior, vehicles, fallen trees, etc.

  • Use multiple angles. Video can help too.

  • Focus on recovery-related items—document for insurance and EMA purposes.

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7. 📞 Contact Your Insurance Provider:

  • File a claim as soon as possible.

  • Ask what documentation is needed and what steps to take.

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8. 🏢 If You Rent:

  • Contact your landlord immediately about any damage to the structure or utilities.

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9. 🧭 Implement Household Emergency Plan (As Appropriate):

  • Review your plan and activate needed elements (alternate shelter, off-grid supplies, medical care plans, etc.).

  • Use stored water, food, power banks, or backup lighting as necessary.

  • Track family members’ well-being and location if you’re separated.

  • Adjust actions based on current conditions and forecasted impacts.

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10. 📋 Report Damage to EMA:

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11. 🪚 Need Help With Debris?

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12. 🆘 Was a Federal Disaster Declared?

  • Check updates here: cc-ema.org/ia

  • If activated, individual assistance may be available for uninsured damages.

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🔧 Additional Best Practices:

  • 📻 Stay Informed:
    Monitor local media, NOAA Weather Radio, and Clinton County EMA social media for official updates and safety advisories.

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  • ⚠️ Use Generators Safely:

    • Never use indoors or in garages.

    • Keep at least 20 feet from windows/doors.

    • Let the engine cool before refueling.

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  • 💧 Secure Food and Water:

    • Discard refrigerated food if the power has been out for 4+ hours.

    • Use only safe drinking water (boil or use bottled if needed).

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  • 🧼 Sanitize:

    • Clean surfaces affected by floodwaters with disinfectant.

    • Watch for mold growth within 24–48 hours in damp areas.

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  • 📝 Keep a Recovery Log:

    • Record who you spoke with, dates, and claim/reference numbers.

    • Keep receipts for cleanup, repairs, or temporary lodging.

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