Audio version:
Do you know what risks are present in your own neighborhood? Probably not says Director John Benson, of The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. He gives advice for every Iowan in case of an emergency, because in many cases the Cavalry can’t make it until it’s too late.
Director Benson says the Iowa, FEMA, and help will eventually get to you, but it’s up to you to hold out until they arrive. He discusses flood preparedness, what changes the state if making to ensure floods happen less, and how emergency alert systems are changing as technology changes.
Local Knowledge: Your First Line of Defense
Benson stresses the value of speaking with long-term residents when moving to a new neighborhood. These individuals often know the history of floods, storms, and other hazards in the area. He shares a personal anecdote from northwest Iowa where a local worker’s correction to a flood elevation map proved more accurate than federal data. “Trusting local knowledge is probably one of the best resources you got,” he says, adding that neighbors’ experience can reveal risks no official report will list.
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Three Steps to Personal Preparedness
The conversation shifts to personal responsibility during emergencies. Benson outlines three key principles:
- Understand hazards in your area.
- Know what you need to take if you must leave quickly—medications, documents, financial tools, pet supplies.
- Have a plan for where to go and communicate it to others.
He recommends practicing these steps in advance to build “muscle memory” for high-stress situations.
Multiple Channels for Emergency Alerts
On the topic of warning systems, Benson explains that no single communication method is foolproof. He advises using multiple alert sources, including NOAA weather radios, local sirens, state text-alert systems, and traditional AM/FM broadcasts. “Don’t rely upon a single source to get your warning information because… systems fail,” Benson cautions.
Rethinking Development to Reduce Flood Risks
Benson also discusses how Iowa cities are adopting “whole watershed” approaches to manage water more effectively. Examples include Des Moines increasing storm sewer capacity and Dubuque installing permeable pavers and daylighting storm sewers. Holding basins and other infrastructure changes help rivers “breathe” naturally, limiting the scope of flooding during heavy rains.
Starting Your Preparedness Journey
For those ready to take action, Benson recommends starting at ready.iowa.gov for preparedness guidance and homelandsecurity.iowa.gov for information on the department’s work. “Sometimes just getting started and doing the simple things… you’re making yourself better prepared,” he concludes.