Waterproof bags for documents, water purification tablets, rubber boots and gloves, battery-powered radio, plastic sheeting, sandbags, portable phone charger, waterproof flashlight.
🏠 Home Protection
Install check valves in plumbing to prevent backflow. Apply waterproof sealant to basement walls. Consider flood insurance - standard homeowners policies don't cover floods. Elevate furnace, water heater, and electrical panel.
During a Flood
✓ Do
Move to higher ground immediately
Listen to emergency broadcasts
Disconnect electrical appliances
Evacuate if told to do so
✗ Don't
Drive through flooded roads
Walk through moving water
Touch electrical equipment if wet
Return home before all-clear
🚗 Turn Around, Don't Drown
Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down. 12 inches can carry away a small car. 2 feet of water can float most vehicles. Never drive or walk through flood waters - you can't tell how deep they are.
⚡ Electrical Safety
If water is rising in your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker if safe to do so. Never touch electrical equipment while standing in water. Stay away from downed power lines in flooded areas.
After a Flood
✓ Do
Document damage before cleanup
Disinfect everything water touched
Dry out building within 48 hours
Check foundation for damage
✗ Don't
Enter flooded buildings until safe
Use flood-contaminated water
Ignore mold (grows in 24-48 hrs)
Use gas or electric until inspected
🧹 Cleanup Safety
Wear protective gear: rubber gloves, boots, and N95 mask. Remove all soaked materials (drywall, insulation, carpet). Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the building. Disinfect with a bleach solution (1 cup bleach per 5 gallons water).
💧 Water Safety
Don't drink tap water until authorities confirm it's safe. Boil water or use bottled water for drinking and cooking. Throw away any food that came in contact with flood water, including canned goods with damaged seals.