Preparing for severe weather can make all the difference in protecting your family and property. The National Weather Service (NWS) recommends three simple steps to stay safe: Make a Plan, build a Kit, and stay informed.
Make a Plan Being prepared means knowing what to do before an emergency strikes. Ensure your family knows how to respond, where to go, and how to stay in contact if separated.
- Create a Family Communication Plan: Designate an out-of-town contact for family members to reach during an emergency. Ensure everyone knows how and when to call 911 or local emergency services.
- Develop an Evacuation Plan: Contact local emergency management agencies to learn about shelters, hospitals, and evacuation routes. Keep in mind that most shelters do not accept pets, so plan accordingly.
- Address Special Needs: Ensure any family members who rely on medical equipment or have special needs are accounted for in your plan.
- Access helpful templates here:
- Create a Family Emergency Plan (PDF)
- Create a Wallet-Size Family Emergency Plan (PDF)
Build a Kit Assemble an emergency supply kit to sustain your household for 3-5 days. Your kit should include:
- Water and non-perishable food
- First aid supplies
- Battery-operated flashlight and radio with extra batteries
- Clothing, bedding, and hygiene items
- Cash and important documents (such as identification and insurance papers)
- Special items like medications, baby supplies, or pet necessities
Check out a complete supply list here: Emergency Supply Kit Checklist (PDF)
Stay Informed Knowing how to receive timely information can save lives. Stay up-to-date on weather alerts and emergency instructions using these resources:
- Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs): Receive free alerts directly to your mobile device without the need for an app or subscription.
- Emergency Alert System (EAS): Stay informed via broadcasts on radio and TV during emergencies.
- NOAA Weather Radio: Get localized weather alerts through a programmable radio.
- Alert Iowa: Sign up for free text, email, or voice notifications from Iowa’s official emergency messaging system.
- 511 Information: Stay informed on road conditions through the Iowa Department of Transportation’s website or app.
- Warning Sirens: Outdoor sirens are activated for tornado warnings, funnel cloud sightings, or severe thunderstorms with winds of 70 mph or greater, or hail of golf-ball size or larger.
Being proactive can make all the difference when severe weather strikes. Learn more about emergency preparedness at Ready.Iowa. Stay safe, Muscatine!
