Mason Encourages Residents to Make Flood Preparation Plans

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GURNEE, Ill. – State Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, is sharing emergency preparedness advice to help residents stay safe in the event of severe flooding.

“Our region has many beautiful lakes, creeks and wetlands. These natural resources offer great opportunities to safely spend time outdoors during the stay-at-home order, but they also make our area more vulnerable to floods,” said Mason. “Flooding can happen anywhere and without warning. That’s why it’s important for everyone, regardless of how near they live to a body of water, to always be prepared for a flood.”

Mason is advising residents to prepare for a flood by maintaining a well-stocked emergency kit containing items like a battery-powered radio, flashlights, non-perishable food items, bottled water, prescription medications and pet supplies. Mason is also reminding residents to check their kits for expired items to make sure all resources work as intended during an emergency.

“Aside from taking preventative measures before a flood, like restocking emergency supplies and keeping flood insurance policies up-to-date, it’s also critical to familiarize yourself with precautions that will help you avoid dangerous situations during a flood,” Mason said. “Remembering small but vital tips like not crossing a flooded roadway, monitoring real-time weather alerts and following guidance issued by emergency management agencies can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe during a flood.”

For more information on flood preparedness, please view the Illinois Emergency Management Agency’s Severe Weather Preparedness Guide at https://www2.illinois.gov/iema/Preparedness/Documents/severeweatherpreparedness.pdf.