COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — Ohio is marking September as Ohio Preparedness Month, with state officials encouraging families to take steps now to be ready for emergencies and disasters.
The monthlong campaign, coordinated by the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, focuses on helping Ohioans prepare for situations including severe weather, flooding, tornadoes, winter storms, power outages and other emergencies.
This year’s theme is “Prepare Your Family.”
Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick said the goal is to encourage families to stay informed, stay connected and take simple steps to protect their loved ones.
Each week of September focuses on a different area of preparedness:
- Sept. 1-5: Preparedness Kits for the Family
- Sept. 6-12: Plan for Your Family
- Sept. 13-19: Family Communication
- Sept. 20-26: Youth Preparedness
- Sept. 27-30: Pet Preparedness
Ohio EMA recommends that residents build or update an emergency kit with supplies needed by everyone in their household.
Officials also encourage families to know where to receive emergency information, understand what to do during a power outage and be aware of weather risks that could affect their area.
Families are also encouraged to have an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, shelter locations, communication methods and plans for pets.
Ohio EMA says residents should consider whether they have multiple reliable ways to receive emergency information and communicate with family members during an emergency.
The preparedness campaign comes as Ohio communities continue to experience the effects of severe weather, including flooding and storms that have caused significant damage and power outages across parts of the state.
Officials say being prepared ahead of time can help reduce fear and confusion during an emergency and allow families to focus on keeping themselves and others safe.
More preparedness information and resources are available through the Ohio Emergency Management Agency.
Last Updated on September 1, 2026 by AVC News
