Brimfield Township is actively developing an emergency action plan for disasters that could affect our community. Under direction from the Township Trustees a comprehensive plan has been developed to identify potential disasters and their impact on our community. In addition the plan identifies steps that can be taken to eliminate or mitigate known hazards. Other aspects of the plan provide for the continuity of government during and following a disaster.

Several goals have been identified by the plan. They include a need to develop citizen awareness and self-sufficiency both during and following a disaster. A second goal is to enhance the response capabilities of our police and fire first responders, and finally to guide Brimfield and its entities in the correct behavior during emergencies.

A vulnerability assessment was conducted to determine potential disasters that could occur in Brimfield. Each potential disaster was then organized into one of the following categories: natural hazards, technological hazards, or terrorism/criminal acts. Following identification each hazard was rated according to the probability that it would occur followed by its impact on the community. For example thunderstorms and lightning were rated as high probability but low impact. Another example of hazardous chemical release was rated as low probability but high impact.

The results of our data collection are being used to prepare our safety forces to be better prepared to respond to disasters. Steps being taken are preplanning known hazard locations, specialized training for our police officers and firefighters, and plans to conduct tabletop and functional training exercises. In addition Township Trustees are considering and prioritizing suggestions to mitigate certain hazards. Other steps being taken include familiarization with the requirements and resources available through both the State of Ohio EMA and Federal EMA. Finally we intend to educate citizens to be prepared for the first 72 hours of a disaster.

On November 1, 2005, the police and fire departments presented a Community Forum entitled “Disaster Preparedness 101.” During the program residents were given information and tips on how to prepare 72-hour disaster kits. Practical suggestions were made by township resident Shirley Mars who brought her disaster kit with her. A list of items that should be included in a 72-hour disaster kit will appear soon on this web site.

For further information about disaster preparedness in Brimfield Township you can call either Police Chief David Blough at 330-673-7716, or Fire Chief Robert Keller at 330-678-9244. For groups of at least 10 people we also have a 90 minute presentation that can be delivered at your place or ours.

Browse BEAP 72 Hour Kit Plan Web Page

Download BEAP 72 Hour Kit Plan.PDF