When Disaster Strikes: Your Emergency Flood Kit Could Be the Difference Between Recovery and Catastrophe
Flooding is the most common and most costly disaster in Wisconsin, and with major floods typically occurring either in spring when melting snow adds to normal runoff or in summer and early fall after intense rainfalls, every homeowner needs to be prepared. While you can’t prevent flooding, having a well-stocked emergency flood kit can mean the difference between a manageable situation and a complete disaster.
Why Wisconsin Homeowners Need Emergency Flood Kits
Flooding can happen quickly, leaving little time to gather necessities. Evacuations may be required, and shelters may not provide everything you need. Essential services like electricity, water, and communication networks may be down for days or weeks. Recent events in Wisconsin have shown just how devastating flooding can be, with FEMA aid becoming available for Wisconsin residents affected by August’s historic floods, with President Donald Trump approving nearly $30 million for residents hit hardest by last month’s historic rainfall.
Most homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage, making preparation even more critical. When professional help is needed, having emergency flood services near me readily available can help minimize damage and begin the restoration process quickly.
Essential Items for Your Wisconsin Flood Emergency Kit
FEMA recommends preparing an emergency kit that can sustain your family for at least 72 hours. Here are the critical components every Wisconsin homeowner should include:
Water and Food Supplies
- Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food) including canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits, and baby formula (if needed)
- Manual can opener for food items
Medical and Personal Care Items
- First aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and essential medications
- Prescription medications (at least a seven-day supply)
- Personal hygiene items: Soap, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products
- Face masks – To help filter contaminated air or prevent illness
Tools and Safety Equipment
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Multi-tool or pocketknife
- Whistle (to signal for help if needed)
- Utility shut-off tools – A wrench or pliers may be needed to turn off gas, water, or power
Important Documents and Communication
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Cash – ATMs and card readers may not be operational. Keep small bills on hand.
- Cell Phone with Chargers & Backup Batteries – A solar-powered or hand-crank charger is ideal
- Emergency Contact Information – A printed list of family members, friends, and emergency services
Wisconsin-Specific Considerations
Wisconsin’s climate and geography present unique challenges. A change of clothes for each person in your home (if you live in a cooler climate make sure the clothes are warm!) and include a jacket, hat, gloves and closed toe shoes for walking (boots or sturdy sneakers are best) are essential for Wisconsin residents.
Given Wisconsin’s susceptibility to basement flooding, consider including plastic sheeting and duct tape (to seal doors, windows, and air vents from contaminated air or to build an emergency shelter) in your kit.
Maintaining Your Emergency Kit
Your flood emergency kit requires regular maintenance to remain effective. Check supplies every six months and replace expired items. Update medications and documents as needed. Conduct family emergency drills to ensure everyone knows where the kit is and how to use it.
Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
When Professional Help is Needed
While an emergency flood kit helps you survive the immediate crisis, professional restoration services are often necessary for recovery. Expert flood restoration services that are fast, reliable, and designed to take the stress out of recovery use experienced teams committed to restoring property quickly and efficiently, using the latest technology to ensure a seamless return to normal after disaster strikes.
Companies like Flood Guys WI understand the urgency of flood situations. They pride themselves on rapid response time, which is typically under 60 minutes for emergency calls. Their 24/7 availability ensures that they’re there when you need them most. Prompt action is crucial in minimizing damage, so you can count on them to arrive quickly and begin the restoration process.
Taking Action Before Disaster Strikes
Floods can happen with little warning, but being prepared in advance can make all the difference. Build your flood emergency kit today to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe in a disaster.
Remember, when flooding is about to happen or occurring, your first priority is the physical safety of you, your loved ones, and your pets. Your emergency flood kit is your first line of defense, but knowing when to evacuate and having professional restoration services ready to help with recovery are equally important parts of your flood preparedness plan.
Don’t wait until the next flood warning to act. Assemble your emergency flood kit now, review your evacuation plans, and research local restoration services. When disaster strikes, you’ll be grateful for the time you spent preparing today.