SPRINGFIELD – To help potential flood victims along the Mississippi River in the event of evacuation, the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) has posted a list of both tips and resources on its consumer website at www.isbalawyers.com. The ISBA responded to a request for assistance from ISBA member William J. Quinlan, legal counsel in the Governor's Office.

"We all hope for the least amount of damage and displacement, but it's best to be prepared," said Jack C. Carey, a Belleville attorney who will be installed June 27 as ISBA President. "If people have to leave their home due to flooding or another natural disaster, there are a number of items that they should have with them, including a list of resources."

Proof of identity is of paramount importance, he said. These include proof of your name, place of residency and employment, as well as insurance policies, charge cards, checkbooks and personal documents such as wills and passports. Information posted on the ISBA web site also advises people to place an identification tag on their pets and bring along a cell phone and charger as well as a laptop computer if they own one.

"These items should be gathered early on and kept in one place, preferably in a waterproof container that is easily transported in the event of an evacuation," said Carey.

The web site also includes a list of resources for disaster victims, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Illinois Legal Aid, Illinois State Police, International Red Cross, Salvation Army and numerous others.

The ISBA, with offices in Springfield and Chicago, provides professional services to Illinois Lawyers, and education and services to the public.