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Cleveland weather can be unpredictable and emergency situations can happen at any minute. From disastrous winter storms, fierce floods, horrifying tornadoes or disabling electrical outages, preparedness is paramount. Emergency situations are not limited to natural disasters but include rapidly contagious diseases and flu strains of viruses that have a potential to cause high rates of human destruction. No one likes to think these epidemics are possible, let alone plan for one. Should any type of natural disaster or serious virus pandemic arise, here are some resources to ensure safety and valuable life-saving tips.

American Red Cross, well known for assistance in any disaster, natural or biological, offers not only a wide range of survival classes, but also blood donation centers and preparedness resources. The Cleveland-area Red Cross stands ready for any emergency that happens in the area. It is a great resource for anything a family needs during a time of loss and disaster. From food, shelter and clothing to finding lost loved ones, the Red Cross is a wonderful resource.

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The Ohio Emergency Management Agency is an organization that plans for the path of disaster. Albeit being a state organization, the Ohio Emergency Management Agency has localized plans for every region of Ohio. It prepares for natural disasters and illness, but also spills of hazardous materials or disaster from weapons of mass destruction through, air, water or land. It facilitates communications from state, counties and other facilities. For the colder months, refer to its plan that ensures a safe winter, including cutting low-hanging branches and trees in case of an ice storm, clear gutters, invest in an auxiliary heating source, guard against carbon monoxide dangers, have a complete first aid kit available and many more. A plan is in place for every disaster. Contact the organization when affected to obtain the current plan for your neighborhood.

One of the main concerns after every disaster is the spread of disease. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is a federal organization that monitors health concerns in the United States. Diseases occur for many reason, but some include contaminated water, suffocating mold, spoiled food, insect infestations (i.e. bed bugs), as well as others. Its website includes information regarding current outbreaks, health and safety tips, warnings, tips on preparing an emergency supply kit, emergency plans and tips on staying connected. 

After any disaster or outbreak, the potential of injury is high. Finding a qualified medical facility can sometimes be difficult during hard times. University Hospital is a state-of-the-art facility with top-of-the-class physicians, nurses and staff. University Hospital provides comprehensive care in areas from pediatrics to organ transplants. The emergency room and inpatient facilities are sure to house all patient needs.

During the aftermath of any disaster, there are consequences of the horror. Maybe a horrific tornado ripped through a neighborhood or an ice storm brought down hundreds of power supplies. Chances of property damage is high. Having a trust worthy hardware store to turn to is essential for supplies such as generators, wood, duct tape, flashlights, shovels and much more. Cedar Center Hardware is family owned and just celebrated its 18th anniversary. “The Biggest Little Hardware Store In Town” prides itself in aiding customers in their building and home improvement needs. It offers a friendly and knowledgeable staff that is always willing to assist. In an event of an emergency, the owners and staff of Cedar Center Hardware will do everything possible to make the emergency seem a little less disastrous.

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