Code 3 Search and Rescue

Z is for Zero-Visibility conditions.

Fog, heavy rain, snow, and smoke can reduce visibility to near zero. That affects driving, hiking, and response operations. The safest move is often to slow down, increase spacing, and stop if you can’t see.

• Use low beams (high beams reflect back).
• Follow lane markings.
• If visibility is near zero, pull off safely and stop.

Visibility changes fast. Planning for it prevents crashes and close calls.

ℹ️ NWS Fog Safety Overview: https://www.weather.gov/safety/fog

Code 3 Search and Rescue extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues impacted by the tragic loss of Sergeant Scott Ries from the Rittman Police Department.

On the evening of the incident, around 9:30 p.m., Sergeant Ries was responding to a shots fired call near 90 Chippewa Trail in Rittman. Upon arrival, he and other law enforcement officers from the Rittman Police Department, Medina County Sheriff's Office, and Wayne County Sheriff's Office encountered immediate gunfire. Tragically, Sergeant Ries and four deputies from the Medina County Sheriff's Office were struck during this exchange. Sergeant Ries succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

In the aftermath, two deputies were transported to a local hospital and are currently in stable condition, while two others received treatment on-site. Additionally, a K-9 officer from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, who was also injured, remains in serious condition at a local animal hospital. Sadly, two other individuals lost their lives during this incident.

Sergeant Ries dedicated 10 years of service to the Rittman Police Department and had previously served as a deputy sheriff for the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office and as an officer with the Sugar Grove Police Department in Fairfield County. His commitment to duty and the community will always be remembered.

In this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy.

Y is for YOU.

Preparedness isn’t only gear. It’s judgment, pacing, and knowing your limits. Did you know, many outdoor emergencies happen when people push past daylight, weather changes, or fatigue?

• Plan ahead and Tell someone your plan.
• Turn around early if conditions change.
• Keep enough energy to get back safely.

Better decisions prevent emergencies for you and reduce risk for responders.

🇺🇸Happy 4th of July🇺🇸
Enjoy celebrating America's milestone 250th Independence Day anniversary today with family and friends!

HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THURSDAY.
Heat index values up to 105.

X is for X-Factors: the unexpected tools that make a big difference.

Sometimes it’s not the fanciest gear—it’s the simple, well-placed item that solves the problem: an extra light, a warm layer, a whistle, a battery pack, a reflective marker.

• If you’re outdoors: light + water + whistle + layers
• If you’re driving in winter: a blanket + traction aid
• If you're on the water: Personal Flotation Device (PFD) + whistle + throw bag

Small choices and simple tools add up to safer outcomes.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH 369 IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 AM EDT MONDAY FOR THE CINCINNATI TRI-STATE AREA. BE PREPARED.

Happy Father’s Day, dads! Thank you for all the sacrifices you make for your families and the joy you bring to them. Your hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed, and today we celebrate you. Enjoy your special day!

W is for Weather Monitoring.

Weather isn’t background noise—it’s actionable information. Rain, wind, and temperature changes affect river levels, trail conditions, and visibility. Checking conditions before and during an outing helps prevent avoidable emergencies.

• Check forecast + radar before you go.
• In heavy rain, avoid creek crossings.
• Use trusted sources for river levels and flood forecasts.

The best rescue is the one that never has to happen.

ℹ️ NOAA National Water Prediction Service: https://water.noaa.gov/
ℹ️ USGS National Water Dashboard: https://dashboard.waterdata.usgs.gov/

Thunderstorms are expected to develop late this afternoon and into tonight. Some severe storms will be possible.

Thunderstorms are expected to develop late this afternoon and into tonight. Some severe storms will be possible. Damaging wind will be the main threat, although large hail and a few tornadoes will also be possible. The storms will also be capable of producing heavy downpours resulting in the potential for localized flash flooding.