Are You Ready to Leave in 5 Minutes?
- Thomas Breckel
- 22 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 hours ago
When an emergency strikes, seconds count. Whether it’s a hazardous materials spill, a train derailment, or the failure of a dam, you may be told to leave your home on very short notice. Having a bug-out bag (a pre-packed emergency kit) means you won’t lose valuable time searching for essentials.
We’ve been fortunate in Clinton County not to experience the kinds of disasters you see in the news from other communities. But that doesn’t mean it can’t happen here. In fact, fire is one of the most common disasters that can impact a household, and only about 65% of households report having a fire extinguisher—with many assuming that if it hasn’t been used, it’s still good. That assumption isn’t always true, and it’s a reminder that everyday risks can be just as serious as the larger emergencies.
Who Should Have a Bug-Out Bag in Clinton County?
While every household benefits from having a bag ready, certain residents face higher risks and should especially consider preparing one:
Within Half a Mile of a Rail Line – Trains passing through Clinton County frequently carry hazardous materials. A derailment can require quick evacuation.
Near Bulk Hazardous Materials Storage Sites – Facilities that store chemicals, fuels, or other dangerous goods can pose risks if there’s a leak, fire, or release.
Downstream of a Class I Dam –A Class I Dam is defined as one where failure would result in probable loss of life and serious damage to homes, businesses, or major infrastructure. Clinton County has several such structures, and being downstream means evacuation orders could come with very little warning.
Communities where this applies include: Blanchester, Burtonville, Cuba, Martinsville, Melvin, Midland, New Vienna, Sabina, and Wilmington.
Location | Rail | HazMat | Class 1 Dam |
Blanchester | ✅ | ✅ | |
Burtonville | ✅ | ||
Clarksville | |||
Cuba | ✅ | ||
Martinsville | ✅ | ||
Melvin | ✅ | ✅ | |
Midland | ✅ | ✅ | |
New Vienna | ✅ | ||
Sabina | ✅ | ✅ | |
Wilmington | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
What to Pre-Pack (Non-Expiring Essentials)
Build a bag that can sit ready year-round with items that don’t go bad quickly:
Copies of important documents (IDs, insurance papers, medical information) in a waterproof pouch
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Multi-tool or basic tools
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Cash in small bills
Extra phone charger or power bank
Sturdy shoes and a change of clothes
Personal hygiene items (soap, toothbrush, hand sanitizer, wipes)
Blanket or emergency space blanket
What to Grab Quickly (Under One Minute)
Keep these items by your bag so you can add them in seconds:
Prescription medications
Glasses, hearing aids, or other medical devices
Cell phone and charger
Keys (house and car)
Pet food, leash, or carrier
Weather-appropriate jacket or coat
Go-to comfort items for kids (favorite toy or blanket)
Where to Go
If an evacuation is ordered:
Follow directions from local officials, which may include designated shelters or reception centers.
If told to leave immediately, move away from the hazard zone using main routes rather than shortcuts.
Do not return until officials announce it is safe.
Stay Informed
The most important step after leaving is staying updated. Clinton County Emergency Alerts (CCEA) will point you in the right direction during an emergency—directing you to our Emergency Notice Page at www.cc-ema.org/notice or, if needed, to a special contingency page. These pages will already be filled with the critical details you need, such as what to do, what to take, and when to act.
Final Word
Emergencies don’t wait for you to get ready. Having a bug-out bag packed today could mean the difference between a safe, quick evacuation and a dangerous scramble. Even though Clinton County hasn’t seen a major disaster recently, risks like household fire, chemical spills, or dam failure are always possible. Preparation today is peace of mind tomorrow.