Are You Prepared for The Unexpected?

AARP Ohio recently sat down with Sima Merick, Executive Director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency, and Jenny Carlson, State Director of AARP Ohio, to discuss the importance of building communities that are safe, prepared, and age-friendly. September is National Preparedness Month, a timely reminder that having a plan is essential for people of every age.

When Disaster Hit Home

Preparedness became personal for Jenny Carlson and her family last year. In 2024, their home was struck by a tornado while her 86-year-old mother was living with them. Just a few months later, another wave of severe storms swept through their community, bringing down several large trees and causing even more damage to their property.

These back-to-back events were a stark reminder that disasters do not wait for convenience. Having a plan in place made recovery possible and underscored how important it is for every Ohio family to be ready before disaster strikes.

Why Preparedness Matters

As Director Merick emphasized during the conversation, every household should create a plan that meets its unique needs using a checklist. That means thinking ahead about how to protect property, safeguard important documents, and ensure that older adults and caregivers are supported during an emergency.

One of the most practical steps families can take is assembling a disaster supply kit by using this checklist. Beyond flashlights and chargers, kits should include medications, copies of critical records, and supplies for pets. To help Ohioans take this step, AARP Ohio has developed a Ready Bag filled with essential items to cover a household’s safety bases.

Why Preparedness Matters

If you missed our recent conversation with Ohio Director Jenny Carlson and Director Merick, you can still watch the full replay. The discussion covers practical steps, real stories, and valuable insights to help you and your loved ones prepare before disaster strikes. Watch the replay.

Take Action Today

To encourage preparedness, AARP Ohio is running the Disaster Preparedness Sweepstakes. From now until October 30, 2025 Ohioans can enter to have a chance to win one of 20 Ready Bags. Winners will be drawn the following day on Halloween.

Enter Ready Bag Sweepstakes

Preparedness is about more than surviving a storm. It is about ensuring that every Ohioan, no matter their age, has the tools and resources to recover, rebuild, and thrive.