With Hurricane Hermine sending rains Oklahoma’s way, residents were warned of the possibility yesterday of flash floods increasing across the state.

Although officials were uncertain how powerful this system could have been, Janienne Bella, chief executive officer for the American Red Cross of Central Oklahoma, said, “We do know one thing, we know the power of preparing. If you are in a flood prone area, taking an hour to gather important items, discussing a plan with your family and knowing how to react if water is at your doorstep empowers you to protect what is most important.”

Residents in flood prone areas are urged to take precautions and make an emergency kit for the possibility of last minute evacuations: Water—at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day; Food—at least a 3-day supply of non- perishable, easy-to-prepare food; Flashlight; Battery-powered or hand-crank radio; (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible); Extra batteries; First aid kit; Medications (7-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane); Multi-purpose tool; Sanitation and personal hygiene items; Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies); Cell phone with chargers; Family and emergency contact information; Extra cash; Emergency blanket; Map(s) of the area; Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers); Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl); Tools/supplies for securing your home; Extra set of car keys and house keys; Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes; Rain gear; Insect repellent and sunscreen

For a full checklist of how to prepare for a flood, visit redcross.org  and follow @okcredcross #OKWX on twitter for update on response.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.