Preparedness & Resilience

General Preparedness Tips

Being prepared for extreme weather events or emergencies can be life-saving and is crucial to resilience. Some general tips include:

Build an emergency kit containing enough non-perishable food, water, and basic necessities for each family member in addition to a first aid kit.
Gather essential medications, pet food, extra batteries to charge phones, cash, and copies of important documents.
Regular maintenance of HVAC systems and proper insulation, weatherstrip doors and windows, and cover windows with drapes or shades.
When expecting a severe storm, gather loose items outside that could be dangerous as flying debris.

What to do during severe storms:

During a tornado or severe storm, seek immediate shelter in the basement or lowest level of a sturdy building. Stay away from any windows and doors.
Bring your pets inside to a safe area with you.
Never wade in floodwaters to avoid harmful runoff from sewer systems, dangerous debris, and the risk of drowning.

What to do during power outage:

Use flashlights in the dark, not candles.
Prepare a cooler with ice for food items in the freezer.
Don’t drive unless necessary.
To avoid power surges, unplug all appliances and turn off all lights except one to signal when power is restored.
Never use a generator inside your home to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Don’t step in puddles or standing water if power lines are down.

In times of extreme heat:

Never leave children or pets unattended in cars.
Be careful taking dogs or other pets for walks – pavement can quickly become hot enough to burn paws.
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid outdoor activities during midday heat.
Wear loose clothing that is lightweight and light-colored.
If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine.

If you don’t have access to air conditioning, you can go to cooling centers located here:

In times of extreme cold or during winter storms:

Ensure you have enough winter clothes (hats, gloves, coats, socks, blankets) for all members of your household.
If you anticipate having difficulty shoveling snow out of your own driveway, make a plan with a neighbor or trusted individual who can help. For those able, reach out and help your neighbors in need!
Stay indoors to prevent frostbite or hypothermia.
If you are going to use space heaters to keep warm indoors, make sure to keep anything that could catch fire at least 3 feet away from the heat.
If you must go outside, dress appropriately for the weather – prioritize covering your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes, as these are the first to be at risk for frostbite.
Check in on neighbors in need!

Kettering Police (non-emergency): (937) 296-2555
- Kettering Government Center, 3600 Shroyer Road

CareFirst Urgent Care: (937) 294-0066
- 3604 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH 45429
Kettering Health On-Demand Care: (937) 562-2300
- 424 E Stroop Rd, Kettering, OH 45429