Browse the most commonly asked questions received by the Marshall County Emergency Management.
Are sirens tested regularly?
Yes, Marshall County test our sirens weekly on Tuesdays at 9 am unless there is uncertain weather conditions which prohits from testing.
Did you know that Emergency Management is not a department of the county?
EM in Iowa is its own jurisdiction under Iowa Code 29.C. It is responsible for supporting the EM Commission which is comprised of equal votes from all cities, the county, and the sheriff in the county.
How can I prepare my household?
Make an emergency plan, build a supply kit, know evacuation routes, and practice safety drills. Visit Build an Emergency Supply Kit | Ready Iowa for more information on how to build an emergency supply kit.
How can I receive emergency alerts?
Through local alert systems, NOAA Weather Radio, mobile alerts (Alert Iowa), and official social media channels.
What agencies make up Iowa’s emergency management structure at the state, county, and local levels?
At the state level, the lead agency is the Iowa Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HSEMD). The governor appoints a Homeland Security Advisor and the HSEMD Director, who oversees coordination and grants. At the county level, each county has an emergency management commission (often composed of the board of supervisors, city councils, and the sheriff), which appoints a county EMA coordinator. The state is divided into six emergency management planning districts, and each district has a HSEMD planner to assist local EMAs.
The state is divided into six emergency management planning districts, and each district has a HSEMD planner to assist local EMAs.
What are the primary responsibilities of the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEMD)?
Coordinating statewide emergency management (planning, training, exercises). Administering federal and state grants for mitigation, preparedness, and recovery. Running the Alert Iowa system (public warning / notification). Leading hazard mitigation planning via the State Hazard Mitigation Plan. Managing the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) during emergencies. (In their emergency plan they describe coordinating communications and operations.)
What natural hazards pose the greatest risk to Iowa communities (e.g., flooding, tornadoes, drought)?
Iowa faces a variety of natural hazards, including:
Floods — especially in low-lying river areas.
Tornadoes — severe thunderstorms and tornado risk are significant.
Winter weather/blizzards — snowstorms and extreme winter conditions are part of the risk profile.
Derechos are fast-moving bands of thunderstorms with very strong winds, as Iowa has experienced.
Heat — high-heat events are also recognized hazards.
Less common but possible: hazardous materials incidents, fires, and even cybersecurity threats.
What should I do if I'm told to evacuate?
Follow official instructions, take your emergency kit, secure your home, and use designated evacuation routes.
Where can I find official updates during an emergency?
Check your city or county emergency management social media (Facebook, X, Instagram, and Nextbook), local news, and another verified government social media account.
Will I hear sirens indoors?
Not necessarily. Sirens are meant for outdoor notification. Indoors, you should rely on weather radios, mobile alerts, and other warning systems.
