Emergency Management

The City of Gahanna Emergency Management division is responsible for planning and coordinating responses to emergencies and disaster events in Gahanna. Administered by the Division of Police, the division coordinates with neighboring law enforcement and fire departments, the Mayor, and, if necessary, Federal, State and County emergency agencies to implement plans for recovery from disasters such as chemical spills, major fires and tornadoes. Response plans include coordination with the City Engineering department for safe and efficient use of traffic signals during emergencies and assisting the Gahanna-Jefferson Public Schools in developing the safety plans which are in place at all Gahanna-Jefferson schools.

Seasonal Safety

Winter Storms

While winters in Central Ohio are usually relatively mild, winter storms do occasionally occur. It is important that precautions are taken to protect you and your family during these times. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has advice on how to prepare for winter storms. Learn More

Summer Heat

Summer heat can be extremely dangerous and lethal. Tips on what to do when the mercury rises too high can be found on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) website. Learn More

Tornado Season

Tornado season runs primarily from March to May in Ohio, but may extend as late as August. To help warn Gahanna residents of tornado warnings, Emergency Management maintains six sirens within the city. These sirens are tested every Wednesday at noon to ensure they are operating properly. If you hear a siren or the National Weather Service declares a tornado warning for the area, seek shelter immediately. If possible, seek a room, preferably one without windows, near the middle of the building on the ground floor. If such a room is not available, try to cover yourself with mattresses, cushions, heavy blankets, etc. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has advice on how to prepare for a tornado. Learn More

Additional Hazards

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has much more on hazards and how to deal with them. You can find out more by clicking here.

Register for ALERT Franklin County

ALERT Franklin County is a state-of-the-art mass notification and warning system designed to provide notifications and warnings about emergencies and other important community news in jurisdictions throughout Franklin County. To register for this service online.