How to Prepare

• Consider flood insurance (activation takes 30+ days)
• Have a battery backup for sump pumps 
• Move basement items to a safe location
• Have an evacuation plan (where will you go?) 
• Have a plan for your pets 
• Have your medications clothes, important papers, and other essential items prepared in the event of a flood
• Create an emergency contact list
  • Sign up for CodeRED

In the Event of a Flood

• Evacuate 
• Check in on neighbors that are elderly or may need extra assistance 
• Stay informed
  • Listen to the radio and televison, including NOAA Weather Radio if possible and check the internet/social media for information and updates 
• Get to Higher Ground
  • If you live in a floodplain area and it begins to flood, get to higher ground immediately. 
• Obey Evacuation Orders
  • If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances. 
• Practice Electrical Safety
  • Do not go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises - get out! Stay out of water that may have electricity in it! 
• Avoid Flood Waters
  • Don’t walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible. 
  • DO NOT drive into flooded roadways or around barricades; Turn Around and Don’t Drown! 
  • Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals... etc. 
  • A vehicle caught in swiftly moving water can be swept away in seconds. 12 inches of water can float a car or small SUV, 18 inches of water can carry away large vehicles.