Adams County Issues Winter Preparedness Guide for Local Residents
County officials and local agencies are urging residents in West Union, Peebles, Manchester and Seaman to prepare now for winter weather, including heavy snow, icy roads and possible power outages. The guide compiles emergency contacts, practical steps for households and travel advisories to help residents stay safe and maintain access to heat, medicine and medical care.
Adams County residents are being encouraged to take immediate steps to prepare for severe winter weather and its cascading impacts on transportation, utilities and health care. The county guide emphasizes building a basic 72 hour emergency kit that includes one gallon of water per person per day, nonperishable food, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, a battery powered radio, warm blankets, prescription medications and a charged mobile phone power bank. Households with infants, seniors or medically fragile members are urged to make extra preparations and to check whether local emergency management offers registration for specific services.
Travel guidance for storm conditions stresses that residents should avoid nonessential travel, and if driving is necessary, notify someone of the planned route and estimated arrival time. Drivers are advised to keep an emergency vehicle kit with a blanket, warm clothing, a shovel, an ice scraper, jumper cables, snacks and water. For up to date road conditions and closures, travelers should consult Ohio Department of Transportation regional updates and Ohio State Highway Patrol advisories before departing. If motorists encounter stranded vehicles, they should call local emergency services and avoid attempting roadside towing alone.
The guide outlines heating and utility assistance options including HEAP eligibility through the Adams County Department of Jobs and Family Services and emergency credit or deferred payment programs that local utilities may offer. In prolonged outages or extreme cold, warming centers may be opened by the county or local nonprofits, and activation notices will be issued through county emergency announcements and local media. Residents should report widespread power outages to their utility to ensure crews can respond, and must never run portable generators indoors or in garages. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed and tested in advance.
Medical readiness recommendations include refilling essential prescriptions ahead of storms and checking ACRMC for closures or altered hours. The Area Agency on Aging District 7 can connect seniors with in home supports. Practical household actions include insulating pipes, disconnecting outdoor hoses, locating the main water shutoff valve and stocking rock salt for walkways. Residents are advised to sign up for county alert notifications, follow trusted local outlets for updates and consider volunteering to assist neighbors who may need help with shoveling, meal delivery or transportation for essential appointments.
