What to do During a Flood

Check the items in your Emergency Kit and review your family emergency plan
Listen for instructions from public safety officers and the National Weather Service.
- Flood or Flash Flood Watch: issued by the National Weather Service and means flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area.
- Flood or Flash Flood Warning: issued by the National Weather service and means a flood or flash flood will occur very soon or is already occurring.

Fill bathtubs, sinks and jugs with clean water in case tap water supplies become contaminated. Tip: Sanitize the sinks and bathtubs by using bleach. Rinse, then fill with clean water.
Move valuables, such as papers, furs, jewelry and clothing to upper floors or higher elevations.
Bring outdoor items inside or tie down securely, for example lawn furniture, grills and trashcans.
If waters start to rise inside your house before you have evacuated, retreat to the second floor, the attic, and if necessary, the roof.
If public officials instruct you to do so, shut off water and electricity.
Leave natural gas service ON unless local officials advise you otherwise.

Fill your car's gas tank, or listen for evacuation instructions for those who depend on public transit.
If told to evacuate by public safety officials, do so immediately. See the Evacuation instructions below.

Wash your hands with soap and disinfected water if you touch floodwaters. Floodwaters may carry raw sewage, chemical waste and other disease-spreading substances.
Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.Electric current passes easily through water.
Do not try to swim to safety!
Do not drive, walk or swim through floodwaters. Remember: Turn Around, Don't Drown!
Look out for animals, especially snakes that may be seeking higher ground to avoid floodwaters.

Do not evacuate unless or until directed to do so by public safety officials.
When directed to evacuate, follow the instructions you are given by public safety officials. Heed their advice immediately.
Leave as soon as possible.
Bring your Emergency Kit.
Dress for the prevailing weather conditions, at minimum a long sleeve shirt, pants, and sturdy shoes.
Take your pets with you. Remember that pets (other than assistance animals for people with disabilities) are not permitted in emergency shelters. You must follow your plan to go to a friend's home or a pet-friendly hotel.
Lock your home.
Use travel routes specified by local authorities - don't use shortcuts because certain areas may be impassable or dangerous.
Avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges. Stay away from downed power lines.
If you are sure you'll have time:
- Call your family contact to tell them where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
- Shut off water and electricity before leaving, if instructed to do so. Leave natural gas service ON unless local officials advise you otherwise.
Listen to local authorities. They will provide you with the most accurate information specific to an event in your area. Stay tuned to local radio and television. A battery-powered radio is a vital part of your Emergency Kit.