ARE YOU EMERGENCY READY? A LOUISIANA FLOOD SURVIVAL GUIDE Flooding can happen quickly, leaving little time to react. Taking a few FLOOD ZONE STATUS If you’re unsure if your home is in a flood zone, visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov/portal/home
of life in Louisiana, but a little preparation can go a long way. From assem- bling an emergency kit to making plans for your pets and backup power needs, taking action before a storm can help keep your family safe when severe weather strikes. BUILD A HURRICANE KIT After an emergency, you and your family may need to survive on your own for a few days. With a Hurri- cane Kit, you’ll have a col- lection of basic necessities, and they are inexpensive. To assemble, store items in airtight plastic bags and put them in easy-to-carry containers. ITEMS TO INCLUDE: ■ Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation) ■ Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food) ■ Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert ■ Flashlight ■ First aid kit ■ Extra batteries ■ Whistle ■ Dust mask ■ Plastic sheeting and duct tape
simple steps before severe weather strikes can help keep your family safe and make recovery easier if
and enter your address to view your official flood zone designation. EVACUATION INFORMATION If evacuating is necessary, download the Red Stick Ready app for evacuation notices and shelter loca- tions. Residents can also call 211 for evacuation guidance. POST-FLOOD CLEAN UP SAFETY ■ Wait for the official “all clear.” ■ Check for structural damage first. ■ Turn off electricity and gas if advised. ■ Wear protective gear. ■ Assume floodwater is contaminated. ■ Document damage before cleaning. ■ Remove wet items quickly. ■ Ventilate the space. ■ Be cautious with food and water. ■ Call professionals when needed. GET HURRICANE READY Hurricane season is a fact
floodwaters rise. BEFORE A FLOOD
WARNING, YOU SHOULD: ☐ Know if your home is in a flood-prone area ☐ Sign up for parish and weather emergency alerts through EBR Ready (East Baton Rouge Parish Emer- gency Alerts) or by visiting emergency.louisiana.gov ☐ Identify multiple evacua- tion routes in advance ☐ Keep your gas tank at least half full during storm season ☐ Move vehicles to higher ground when heavy rain is forecast ☐ Clear gutters and storm drains around your home (if safe) ☐ Prepare a go-bag with essentials (meds, docu- ments, chargers, clothes) ☐ Include pet supplies in your emergency plan ☐ Monitor weather condi- tions closely during severe storms ☐ Leave early if flooding becomes likely; don’t wait for a warning
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