Summit County EMA has implemented a comprehensive mitigation planning process to identify and address risks and vulnerabilities associated with natural hazards. The overarching objective is to establish long-term strategies that safeguard individuals and their properties from such hazards. This planning approach entails defining the roles, functions, and collaborations among government entities, their respective departments, private support groups, and individual citizens.

The current mitigation plan serves as a guide for these stakeholders, offering a framework to address the prevention needs, opportunities, and activities necessary for creating a disaster-resistant Summit County.

Mitigation represents a crucial phase within the Emergency Management Cycle. The planning process involves active participation from various community stakeholders who assess vulnerabilities in local communities and critical infrastructure. Mitigation activities can be undertaken both before and after an event occurs.

In compliance with the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, states are required to have an all-hazards mitigation plan approved by FEMA in order to qualify for federal mitigation and public assistance funds associated with a presidential disaster declaration.

Among Summit County's highest priority hazards are river or stream flooding, tornadoes, winter storms, landslides, dam or levee failures, earthquakes, drought, severe summer storms, and excessive heat. To address these hazards, Summit County has implemented several mitigation strategies, including flood plain management, the acquisition or elevation of flood prone structures and the construction of saferooms to protect people during wind events.

If you would like to obtain a copy of the plan, please send an email to EMAplans@summitoh.net. 

• ODPS Ohio Emergency Management Agency Mitigation Branch (Link)