Follow These Family Emergency Steps: Flashing Flooding

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Des Moines East & SW team hopes you never experience a flood. If you do, please call us at 515-244-5511.

Hello Des Moines!

Back in 2008, I watched Cedar Rapid’s flood; I recall my mom saying at one point, the river was splashing up onto the bridge overpass. I watched as Iowans came together to rebuild from this significant flood. During this blog, I want to provide tips on how you can incorporate your family and extended family into a Family Emergency Plan.

• Establishing Meeting Locations and Emergency Contacts

When the river rises and local governments encourage residents to evacuate, you might have a certain amount of time to leave. If your family is not together, you need to have two locations that your family/ extended family knows about. One location should be closer to your home, whereas the second should be further away. Having these two locations is essential if you are unable to return to the area.

• Creating the Evacuation Plan

When creating a plan, you must practice it to ensure your family's safety. The plan should include exit routes you can take in case flooding closes one road. If flooding closes a road, DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH IT! If flooding causes you to be stranded in your home, DON’T PANIC! Go to the highest point in your home with little to no doors and windows. Ensure that this space has nonperishables; if you are stuck for a few days, you will need food supplies.