#AdvocacyMatters: Being Prepared

January 30, 2026 / #AdvocacyMatters

As the last few weeks have shown us, the most predictable thing about Ohio's weather might be its unpredictability. And while those of us in the buckeye state might be used to cold snaps and moderate snow and ice or dangerous thunderstorms and tornadoes, this week's record snowfall showed us just how quickly our normal lives can grind to a halt.

As the snow continued to fall most of Ohio's counties found themselves under level 2 and level 3 snow emergencies, making it difficult or illegal to travel. From there, many folks were stuck at home with whatever supplies they had at the time.

Preparing for situations like these is important for everyone, but for people with disabilities proper planning can help stop a weather event from turning into a life-endangering emergency. The American Red Cross has great resources to help you make your own emergency plan, including tips like:

• Consider your needs for daily living: Personal care products, medications, and other supplies you may need to keep you safe and comfortable if you're unable to leave home.
• Evaluating your adaptive equipment: Thinking about the equipment you use to accomplish daily tasks, do you need any extra chargers or spare parts to keep things going for a few days?
• Possible utility disruptions: Power outages are common with many types of severe weather, do you have access to backup power or a plan to keep necessary medical equipment charged? Do you have bottled water available in case your service is interrupted or if your tap water becomes unusable?
• Evacuating in an emergency: Would you be able to evacuate quickly if necessary? Do you have access to the right kind of equipment and the right vehicle to do this safely?

Thinking about these situations isn't always easy, but planning for emergencies can reduce stress, minimize disruptions, and help keep you and your loved ones safe.

#AdvocacyMatters