Preparing for a Flood

Floods can happen any time and any place. And they can happen fast. So whether you live near the water or not, you should always be ready.

The first step in protecting your home and family is purchasing flood insurance. But even after you’re covered, there are still a few things you can do to maximize your coverage and assure your safety:

  • Take photos of your most valuable possessions. Store copies with other documents.

  • Save and store receipts for any expensive household items so that you have proof of original cost.

  • Make an itemized list of other possessions, such as clothing, books, small kitchen appliances, etc. You don’t have to note every item and its cost, but the more comprehensive your list, the better.

  • Review your insurance policy (or policies) and ask questions to make sure you have the proper level of protection.

  • When the National Weather Service issues a flood watch, monitor potential flood hazards on NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards.

  • Copy your most important documents (mortgage papers, deed, passport, bank information). Keep copies in your home and store originals in a secure place outside the home, such as a bank safe deposit box.

Graphic: check your insurance to ensure you have enough coverage.

Have an Emergency Plan:

  • Provide your insurance agent, employer and family with emergency contact information, so that you can be reached after a flood.

  • Prepare an emergency kit – don’t forget a flashlight and spare batteries.

  • Keep a minimum 3-day supply of nonperishable food and bottled water on hand.

  • Include a battery-powered radio in your emergency kit. Even if you never experience a flood, you’ll be glad to have this kit during a power outage.

  • Visit www.ready.gov for more information and details about what to include in an emergency supply kit.

Be Safe During a Flood:

3 simple steps for flash flood safety: Get to higher ground, Do not drive into water, Stay informed.

  • When a flood warning is issued, heed official instructions.

  • Don’t walk through a flooded area. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down.

  • Don’t drive through a flooded area. A car can easily be carried away by just two feet of floodwater. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else during a flood.

  • Keep away from downed power lines and any other electrical wires. Electrocution is often a major cause of death in floods.

  • Watch out for animals that have lost their homes during a flood. Animals may seek shelter in your home and aggressively defend themselves.

To learn more about staying safe before and during a flood, visit FloodSmart.gov.