Flooding along the Kennebec River will likely become more severe as the climate changes, and residents and businesses near the river may have only hours to evacuate. It’s important to stay prepared.

Here’s what FEMA recommends putting in a flood preparedness kit for one’s home, workplace or car, plus some nice-to-have items:

A basic kit should at least include:

• Water and nonperishable food for several days

• Extra cellphone battery or charger

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio that can receive NOAA Weather Radio tone alerts and extra batteries

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• First aid kit

• Whistle to signal for help

• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

• Nonsparking wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• Can opener (if kit contains canned food)

• Local maps

• Prescription medications and glasses

• Cash and change

• Feminine supplies, personal hygiene items and hand sanitizer

Dylan Hausthor photographs the floodwaters of the Kennebec River in the parking lot at the Hathaway Creative Center in the South End of Waterville in May 2023. Morning Sentinel file

If possible, add:

• Infant formula and diapers

• Pet food, water and supplies for pets

• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a portable waterproof container

• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov

• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person, and additional bedding during colder periods

• Complete change of clothing, including sturdy shoes

• Fire extinguisher

• Matches in a waterproof container

• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and disposable utensils, paper towels

• Paper and pencil, books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Long-term, consider:

• Elevating or anchoring critical utilities, including electrical outlets, fuel tanks, appliances and heating systems

• Clearing debris from gutters and drains regularly to keep water from accumulating in them

• Waterproofing home and basement by installing a back valve, maintaining a working sump pump and installing a battery-operated sump pump in case of power failure

Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency