(DES MOINES) - Iowa Gov. Terry E. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds were joined today at their weekly news conference by Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department (HSEMD) Director Mark Schouten to encourage Iowans to be prepared during severe weather season.
"Lieutenant Governor Reynolds and I offer our sympathy to families who lost loved ones in the storms that raced across Iowa on April 27th, and our support to the communities that sustained damage," said Branstad. "Being prepared for a storm, no matter the season, is the best way to protect yourself and families from dangerous weather."
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"Governor Branstad and I, along with Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department, stand ready to assist Iowans and their communities when severe weather strikes," said Reynolds. "It's critically important for Iowans to take the necessary precautions ahead of inclement weather. We urge Iowans to take time to prepare for this spring and summer's storm season."
Iowa HSEMD outlined 3 easy steps Iowans can take to be ready for severe weather:
Step 1: Be aware
- The most important thing you can do is to stay aware of the potential for bad weather in your area.
- Tune into local television and radio stations, purchase a weather radio, or install a weather alert app onto your mobile phone to receive the most up-to-date weather information.
- When weather alerts are issued, act quickly to stay safe.
Step 2: Make An Emergency Plan
- Sit down with your family and talk about what you will do if there is a severe weather alert issued for your area or if there is a danger of flooding.
- Don't forget to make plans for those with special needs, such as elderly family members, and also for your pets.
Step 3: Build an Emergency Supply Kit
Keep a kit at home and in your car in case you must shelter in place or quickly evacuate your home.
Include in your kit items such as:
- Water and non-perishable food for 3-5 days
- A first aid kit
- A battery-operated flashlight and radio along with extra batteries
- Special items, such as prescription medications, baby formula, diapers and pet food
- Copies of important documents, such as birth certificates and insurance information.
"At the Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department, our job is to ensure Iowa and Iowans are prepared and ready to respond to emergencies and disasters," said Iowa HSEMD Director Mark Schouten. "Our message to all Iowans is to take steps now to be prepared for the next round of severe weather. Just taking a few minutes today to think it through and know what you will do can help keep you and your family safe."
To get additional details and tools, including a brochure that outlines how to plan and prepare, visit www.beready.iowa.gov.
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