Department of Public Safety flood evacuation advice

The following was taken from a news release by the Missouri Department of Public Safety:

If floodwaters threatened your home, could you safely evacuate your family?

"The current flooding is forcing many residents in low lying areas to evacuate their homes under stressful conditions. An essential element of your home emergency plan is preparing an emergency kit or knowing what to quickly gather before leaving your home," said Mark James, Director of Public Safety.

The Department of Public Safety offers the following information:

Remain calm. Plan your travel so you will not drive into flash flooding or low-lying areas.

Gather together personal items you may need: such as soap, towels, shaving articles, toothpaste, tooth brushes, sanitary supplies, eyeglasses, dentures, credit cards, baby foods and disposable diapers. You may also want to bring other supplies such as additionally clothing, a portable radio, flashlight, batteries, plastic or paper bags, books for adults and children and toys for children.

Take prescription medications and other medical supplies.

Gather your pet's food, water, a leash, medications and toys. Please put your pet in a carrying case before you head to a shelter or a hotel.

Before you leave your home, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves, and disconnect electrical appliances.

Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

Remember to lock all windows and doors.

When you return home, you should visually examine natural and propane gas lines or meters for any evidence of shifting due to flood waters before switching utility service on. A full system test is strongly urged before restoring gas utility services.