How to prepare for weather emergencies, power outages

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) – As the Miami Valley deals with the aftermath from Hurricane Helene, emergency officials are reminding Ohioans the importance of being prepared for weather disasters year-round.

September is National Preparedness Month, and Sandy Mackey, public affairs chief for the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (EMA), said the state has seen its share of severe weather. That’s why it’s important Ohioans are prepared for all types of disasters.

“You may need to evacuate, or you may need to shelter in place, or you may be without power, Mackey said. “How are you going to manage all three of those types of things?”

Mackey said the first step is to create an emergency plan that includes everyone in your household, including pets and animals.

“Make sure that you’re looking at your infants and older adults, anyone in the household that has mobility issues or medical devices or other specific needs,” Mackey said.

After taking those needs into account, build a preparedness kit with the basic supplies your family may need.

Some examples of items to have inside include:

• Non-perishable food and water
• Hygiene items
• Weather radio
• Flashlight and batteries
• Important medications

Someone in your household may not be home when a disaster strikes, so Mackey also suggests creating a communications plan with your family.

It should include phone numbers for family members, doctors, utility and insurance companies.

In the case of a power outage, Mackey said make sure you have a plan for using a generator safely.

“Do you know generator safety? Do you practice generator safety? Would you have the gasoline for your generator? Do you have lanterns for your house?” Mackey said.

Mackey says if you take time to plan now, you’ll be ready the next time a disaster strikes.

“It’s important to remain resilient, aware and prepared every day of every month of every year,” Mackey said.

To find out more about ways to prepare for different disasters from the Ohio EMA, click here .

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