Residents of the area which include greater Fargo, North Dakota must be prepared to evacuate. When it is necessary to evacuate residents, local officials will let it be known on television, radio and the internet and through the use of warning sirens or phone calls. Be sure to keep your eye on the news during this time so that you have the time you need to prepare to leave your home.

In order to prepare for an evacuation, you should have plenty of water, food, clothing and emergency supplies on hand to last for three days, at least. Be sure you have a transistor radio with extra batteries on hand. Check the community evacuation plans on the internet and watch the flood reports. If you do not have a vehicle, make transportation arrangements with friends or family. Be sure that everyone in the family knows the plan. Have a destination to meet in the case you are separated during the flood and be sure everyone’s cell phone is fully charged. If you have children in school, contact the school and ask where they kids will be sent in the case of an evacuation. Be sure that young children are made aware of the possibility of a flood so that they know that you will meet up with them quickly when and if the evacuation takes place. If you have a vehicle and you will be using if evacuation is necessary, fill the tank with fuel as gas stations may very well be closed during an emergency.

If you are told to leave your home, and you may very well be, listen to the radio and follow the instructions. Use one car to evacuate your home as this will reduce traffic backups on heavily congested roads. Gather food, water, clothing and your emergency supplies. Be sure you are wearing sensible shoes and clothing that will protect you .Close and lock your doors and windows. Unplug the electrical appliances, turn off the water main and shut off the main power to your home. Put a sign on your front door-covered in plastic-stating that you have evacuated. Include the number of people in the family and the date and time you left. This is greatly assist rescue efforts if the flood waters rise substantially.