With very little time to collect a lifetime of memories and important papers, residents forced to evacuate due to the flooding in the Midwest have mere seconds to select what they will take and what will be left behind.

Where possible, move as many items to the highest level of the home as possible or place them in plastic containers to offer some measure of protection against flood waters. Unplug appliances, wrap them in plastic sheeting or bags, and move them to higher areas. Turn off the water, electricity and gas to prevent secondary damage from explosions or broken pipes.

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