Flood Preparedness: How to Stay Safe Before, During, and After a Flood

Floods are among the most common and destructive natural disasters, causing severe damage to homes, infrastructure, and lives. Whether caused by heavy rainfall, hurricanes, or overflowing rivers, flood preparedness is essential to minimizing risk and ensuring safety. Understanding how to prepare for a flood can help protect your family, home, and community.

What is Flood Preparedness?

Flood preparedness involves taking proactive steps to reduce damage and keep yourself safe before, during, and after a flood. Key actions include staying informed, assembling an emergency kit, securing your home, and knowing evacuation routes.

How to Prepare for a Flood

Stay Informed
Monitor weather alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) and local emergency services. Know the difference between a Flood Watch (flooding is possible) and a Flood Warning (flooding is happening or imminent). Sign up for emergency notifications to receive real-time updates.

Lets build a Kit!

We have curated a shopping list of items recommended from Ready.Gov that should serve as a starting point for your kit. A flood survival kit should include essential supplies to help you sustain yourself if you need to evacuate or shelter in place. Pack:

1. Non-perishable food and bottled water (at least three days’ supply)
2. Flashlights and extra batteries
3. First aid kit
4. Medications and prescriptions
5. Important documents in a waterproof container
6. Cash and credit cards
7. Portable phone charger
8. Rubber boots, rain gear, and extra clothing

Protect Your Home from Flood Damage

Taking preventative measures can help minimize flood damage. Consider:

1. Sealing basement walls with waterproofing compounds.
2. Installing sump pumps to remove floodwater.
3. Elevating electrical systems and major appliances above potential flood levels.
4. Clearing gutters and drains to ensure proper water flow.
5. Storing valuables in waterproof containers on higher floors.

Know Your Evacuation Plan

If you live in a flood-prone area, identify evacuation routes and local shelters in advance. Have a go-bag ready and a plan for where to go if authorities issue an evacuation order. Never attempt to drive through floodwaters—just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and two feet can carry away a vehicle.

Prepare for Flash Floods

Flash floods can occur with little warning, especially in low-lying areas. If a flash flood warning is issued:

1. Move to higher ground immediately.
2. Avoid rivers, drainage channels, and underpasses.
3. Never attempt to cross a flooded road or bridge on foot or in a vehicle.

What to Do During a Flood

1. Stay informed through emergency alerts and weather updates.
2. If indoors, move to the highest level of your home.
3. Avoid contact with floodwater—it may contain sewage, chemicals, and debris.
4. If trapped in a building, climb to the roof and signal for help.
5. Do not use electrical appliances or touch electrical outlets in flooded areas.

What to Do After a Flood

1. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
2. Avoid standing water, which may contain contaminants or hide downed power lines.
3. Wear protective clothing and gloves when cleaning up flood damage.
4. Take photos of property damage for insurance claims.
5. Check for structural damage before entering your home.
6. Be aware of mold growth and remove wet items promptly.

By following these flood preparedness tips, you can help protect yourself, your family, and your property. For more information, visit the rest of our articles, explore our site to ensure you are prepared for a flood event.