Richland Public Health

03/31/2026

With the potential for severe storms later today, including damaging winds or even a tornado, we want to share the Siren Activation Procedures during a Tornado Warning for Richland County sirens.

-Activation of Sirens
•A Tornado Warning is issued from the National Weather Service (NWS).
•After receiving notification of a “Tornado Warning” from the NWS, the sirens shall be activated for the 3-minute steady tone.
•The message Richland County 911 to all listening stations. “Richland County is under a tornado warning until ____ hours this date.”
•After the initial siren activation, if additional reports are received of a tornado touchdown from First Responders or Skywarn Members, the sirens may be activated again in the area of touchdown.

-All Clear Signal
•On expiration of the tornado warning period, the sirens shall be activated for the 1 minute “All Clear” signal
•The message “Richland County 911 to all listening stations, the tornado warning for Richland County has expired.

03/26/2026

Be prepared for severe weather today. High winds, hail, and the possibility of tornadoes. Secure outdoor items that may fly away and make sure your family knows the safety plan and where to shelter.

03/25/2026

Ticks are tiny… but the diseases they carry are not 🕷️⚠️
A bite you barely notice can lead to serious illnesses like Lyme disease, causing fatigue, fever, and long-term health problems if untreated.
Protect yourself when you’re outdoors:
• Use insect repellent
• Wear protective clothing like long sleeves and long pants
• Do full-body tick checks after being outside on your self and your pets.
Visit Richland Public Health today to pick up your FREE tick remover kit.

03/23/2026

Meet Rusty, the Public Health Pooch of the Week. Rusty is currently available for adoption at the Richland County Dog Warden's Office & Shelter.

RPH Pooch of the Week: Rusty

03/20/2026

🦷🌍 World Oral Health Day 🌍🦷
Today we’re celebrating healthy smiles and reminding families that good oral health starts early! Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups help children stay healthy, confident, and ready to learn. Smile Big Richland is here to help! This program offers FREE dental health supplies and education to anyone ages 0-18 in Richland County. To find ou more, visit richlandhealth.org/smile-big-richland

03/20/2026

🌸 Bouncing into the First Day of Spring! 🌿
Warmer weather means more time outdoors—whether you’re hiking, gardening, or enjoying our local parks. It’s a great way to boost your physical and mental health! As you head outside, remember that ticks become more active this time of year. Protect yourself and your family by:
🪲Using EPA-approved insect repellent
🪲Wearing long sleeves and pants in wooded or grassy areas
🪲Checking your body, clothing, and pets for ticks after being outdoors
🪲Showering soon after coming inside
Find more tips on how to prevent ticks at richlandhealth.org

03/17/2026

Step into Spring! This FREE fun event is open to everyone. Be sure to stop by the Richland Public Health table.

03/16/2026

Meet Joker, the Public Health Pooch of the Week! Joker is currently available for adoption at the Richland County Dog Warden's Office & Shelter.

Richland Public Health Pooch of the Week- Joker

03/16/2026

🌪️⛈️ It’s Severe Weather Awareness Week! 🌊⚡
Now is the perfect time to make sure you and your family are prepared for any emergency. Don’t wait until a warning is issued — take action today!
✅ Review your emergency plan
✅ Build or refresh your emergency kit (water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies)
✅Sign up for RC Alerts on your phone (https://www.richlandcountyoh.gov/rcalerts)
✅ Know the safest place in your home for shelter
✅ Stay informed with trusted local weather updates
Severe weather can happen anytime — being prepared can make all the difference. Take a few minutes this week to protect what matters most. 💙

03/14/2026

⚠️ Food Safety During a Power Outage ⚠️
When the power goes out, keeping your food safe becomes a priority. Here are a few quick tips to protect your family and prevent foodborne illness:
🔌 Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed.
A closed refrigerator keeps food cold for about 4 hours, while a full freezer can maintain temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if half full).
🌡️ Know the safe temperature.
Refrigerated food should stay at 40°F (4°C) or below. If perishable foods have been above that temperature for more than 2 hours, it’s safest to throw them out.
🧊 Use ice or coolers if needed.
If the outage is prolonged, move perishable items into a cooler with ice packs to keep them cold.
🗑️ When in doubt, throw it out.
Never taste food to determine if it’s safe.
Find a list of food safety temps at https://odh.ohio.gov/wps/wcm/connect/gov/6524208b-ee53-40c7-b079-bd7e8f8b5941/BEHRP_Food+Safety_Power+Outage+-+When+to+Save_ENG_04022024.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CONVERT_TO=url&CACHEID=ROOTWORKSPACE.Z18_K9I401S01H7F40QBNJU3SO1F56-6524208b-ee53-40c7-b079-bd7e8f8b5941-pEeSGNX

03/13/2026

🌬️ High Wind Warning in Effect 🌬️
Strong winds are expected in our area today and tonight. Gusts may be powerful enough to bring down tree limbs and power lines, which could lead to power outages.
⚠️ If the power goes out, remember these food safety tips:

🥶 Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed.
A closed refrigerator keeps food safe for about 4 hours.
A full freezer can keep food safe for about 48 hours (24 hours if half full).

🌡️ Know the safe temperatures.
Refrigerators should stay at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Freezers should stay at 0°F (-18°C).

🧊 Use coolers and ice if needed.
If the outage lasts longer than a few hours, place perishable foods in a cooler with ice or frozen gel packs.

🚫 When in doubt, throw it out.
Never taste food to determine if it’s safe. If perishable food has been above 40°F for more than 2 hours, it should be discarded.

🔦 Have flashlights, extra batteries, and a plan in case of extended outages. Stay safe and check on neighbors who may need assistance.