Media contact: Sarah Martin
Regional Communications Manager
sarah.martin5@redcross.org | 951-432-9625

SALT LAKE CITY (April 29, 2023) — With record temperatures possible this weekend, the American Red Cross of Utah is urging people to get ready now for a flooding emergency in their neighborhood. Temperatures are expected to rise above 80 degrees this weekend in Salt Lake City, with overnight temperatures well above freezing.

With safety in mind, the Red Cross wants residents to be prepared. “We can all be better prepared for flooding by downloading our Emergency App and following the ‘Five Ps of Evacuation,’ information designed to help in the event of a flood or other disaster,” said Matt Stevens, Regional Disaster Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “In addition, we want the community to know that our Disaster Action Team volunteers and staff are ready to respond at a moment’s notice to assist those who may be forced out of their homes by fast-moving spring runoff.”

If forced to leave your home because of flooding, here’s how to be prepared:

Follow the ‘Five Ps of Evacuation’

1. People – Include all members of the household in a family emergency plan so loved ones know where to go and who to contact if they aren’t home when the emergency happens. Include a contact person in another county or even another state to help coordinate with separated family members.
2. Prescriptions – Create a list of all necessary medications and keep it in your emergency kit; use your list to quickly gather medications when the time comes. If possible, keep back-up medications in your emergency kit.
   
3. Papers – Make copies of important documents and keep them in a secure place that can be accessed with only minutes to spare. Include (originals or copies) of driver’s licenses, passports, wills, social security cards, health insurance cards, birth certificates, vehicle registration, retirement and investment account information, insurance policies, and any other documents you might need.
   
4. Personal – Make a list of personal items each member of the household could need, including clothing, shoes, cell phones, chargers, children’s favorite toys and anything a family member with a disability or special need might require.
   
5. Priceless – Make a list of mementos, photos, or other valuables you would be devastated to lose and plan how they can be quickly gathered. For insurance purposes, take photos of valuables that may be too big or too valuable to bring along.
   

Download the free App today
To make sure you are ready for the unexpected, download the free American Red Cross Emergency app today. It’s compatible with Smart Phones, Apple Watch and Android wearable devices. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps. Learn what to do before, during and after a flood at redcross.org/flood.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.