Hamilton County commissioners declare state of emergency. Here's some resources for those impacted

CINCINNATI — Hamilton County commissioners have declared a state of emergency following severe flooding along multiple rivers.

The declaration will help mobilize additional resources and streamline response and recovery processes for those impacted by the flooding.

The Ohio River crested at 60.79 feet on Monday, but it will remain in a moderate flood stage for days, commissioners said. In addition to the Ohio River, the Whitewater River, the Great Miami River and the Little Miami River all flooded. Those rivers have also crested and water levels are beginning to recede.

If you can, consider donating to help those who are affected by these most recent major floods here.

"As flood waters begin to recede and homeowners and businesses assess their properties, it is important for residents to take the necessary precautions for flood clean-up and debris disposal," reads a press release from commissioners.

The county recommends the following clean-up and debris disposal resources:

• If you are displaced because of the flood and may need sheltering, please call: 1-800-RED-CROSS. If you need help cleaning up, call 211 to have your request shared with local voluntary organizations.
• For household chemicals, refer to the Hamilton County ReSource Recycling and Reuse search tool to know how to properly dispose of them.
• For drywall and construction materials, visit one of four construction and demolition debris landfill locations.
• Yard debris can be dropped off at one of three yard trimming drop-off locations:
  
  • Green Township — 3850 Virginia Court
  • Colerain Township — 3800 Struble Road
  • Anderson Township — 3295 Turpin Lane off Rt. 32
• Flood clean-up kits that include sponges, hand brushes, two sets of handles, trash bags, rubber gloves and more are also being made available for pickup at the following locations:
  
  • Whitewater Township Fire Department — 311 Ohio Avenue Hooven, OH 45033
    
    • During business hours. Residents may wish to call 513-353-1518 to ensure staff are available. 
  • Miami Township Fire Department Station 70 — 3780 Shady Lane, North Bend, OH 45052
    
    • 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  • Anderson Township Fire Department, call 513-688-8070 to request a kit.
  • City of Cincinnati residents are asked to call 311 to request a kit.

If you are experiencing a sewer backup, report it to the Metropolitan Sewer District. Click here for information on how to report.

Flood clean-up safety tips:

• Wash hands frequently when working in contaminated areas or cleaning affected items and wear rubber boots and gloves during clean up
• Do not allow children to play in areas contaminated by flood waters or sewage backup
• Open windows and increase ventilation by using fans to increase air circulation and speed up drying
• Discard food exposed to flood waters, including items in refrigerators or freezers that have taken in water. Discard all fully thawed foods as well as partially thawed foods that won't be immediately prepared. Discard milk, cheeses and bulging or leaking canned food.
• Discard or properly wash and disinfect toys, clothing and other contaminated objects

For more information on how to safely clean up after a flood, visit the Hamilton County Public Health website.