Woman rescued from flooded home

Oskaloosa Fire Department heads out on their second water rescue in a week (submitted photo)

Oskaloosa, Iowa- A Mahaska County woman and her two dogs were rescued today after waters from the Muchakinock Creek surrounded the woman’s rural Mahaska County home.  Debbie Barrier called for help around 4:00 PM Friday afternoon because of the threat that the waters could rise more due to the forecast of more rain. “She did not want to spend the night there because the possible rain coming in and that could raise it [the creek] up some more,” Captain Dave Christenson said after the rescue.

“That basin can not handle any more water,” Christenson also said. “She [the woman] wanted out of there as a safety precaution,” he went on to say.

Debbie Barrier gets a ride for herself and her two dogs back to safety after being stranded in her home (submitted photo)

Friday’s rescue came on the heels of a water rescue earlier this week.

The house that the woman was rescued from was completely surrounded by flood waters. Christenson described it as a “complete island.” The water was also several feet deep in most spots. “Where we launched, I got into probably some 4 and a half foot water, and it was probably over three foot on the road,” Christenson said.

Christenson also offered some advice to anyone who may be in danger of having their home flooded. “Heed the warnings of rising water. If you can get out now, get out. If there is a chance you may be surrounded by water, get out now. And do not drive through any flowing water; any water over the road.”

The Oskaloosa Fire Department was assisted at the scene by Mahaska County Emergency Manager Jamey Robinson in the event the first boat were to experience problems.