September is Ohio Preparedness Month

As Benjamin Franklin once said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail."

Our Bureau of Health Preparedness (BHP) works by this quote, but all Ohioans should keep it in mind as well, especially during September - Ohio Preparedness Month and National Preparedness Month.

"Emergencies are unpredictable, but preparedness is within everyone's reach," said BHP Chief Thomas Muldrow. "September is a perfect time to assess your family's needs, make a plan, and ensure you're ready for any situation. Preparedness saves lives."

Thomas offered some tips to get you thinking about preparedness.

First of all, stay aware! Tornadoes, flooding, and snowstorms - Ohio is no stranger to severe weather. Find out if your community has a text emergency alert system that you can opt into to alert you of these emergencies. Your local emergency management agency and local health department are great resources to turn to if you're not sure what is available to you. Don't forget to follow your local officials on social media!

Downloading apps like the FEMA app, American Red Cross app, and a local weather app on your cellphone will keep you updated on all severe weather and emergency alerts.

Take some time to plan ahead. Create a plan that includes phone numbers of family, caregivers, and any other necessary emergency contacts. The FEMA Create Your Family Communication Plan fact sheet provides critical tips and information in one place. Keep this information stored in your cell phone and print out a copy to keep with your emergency preparedness kit.

Lastly, build a family preparedness kit. What goes into these kits? They should cater to your family's needs, but the FEMA Ready Emergency Supply List can help. Keep in mind the need for necessary mobility devices, medications, and assistive technology. It's also a good idea to have copies of birth certificates, identification cards, and medication/health conditions listed out.

General items that should be in everybody's kit include several days worth of water, cash, and non-perishable food items, plus cellphone chargers, extra batteries, a radio, a flashlight, and more. Keeping these things together and ready will save you from scrambling to collect items during moments when time is of the essence. Having a kit ready to go will give you the peace of mind of knowing that no important items are forgotten.

Don't forget your furry friends! Talk with your veterinarian about developing an emergency plan before an emergency occurs. Ensure your pet has a clearly labeled ID tag with your name and contact number. Have a current photo of your pet and identify pet-friendly locations in case of the need to evacuate.

Visit Ohio Preparedness Month to learn more about the Ohio Emergency Management Agency's awareness campaign. You'll find preparedness resources and Governor Mike DeWine's Ohio Preparedness Month Proclamation.