Flooding Safety Actions

The following information is provided by the National Hurricane Center, a division of the National Weather Service:

  • Determine the elevation of your property
  • Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water
  • Keep materials on hand like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, plastic garbage bags, lumber, shovels, work boots and gloves
    • Call your local emergency management agency to learn how to construct proper protective measures around your home
  • Stay away from downed power lines
  • Be aware of streams, drainage channels and areas known to flood, so you or your evacuation routes are not cut off
  • Restrict children from playing flooded areas
  • Test drinking water for potability; wells should be pumped out and the water tested before drinking
  • Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with floodwaters
    • Wash canned goods that come in contact with floodwaters with soap and hot water
  • Do not cross flowing water
    • As little as 6 inches of water may causes you to lose control of your vehicle
  • Have flood insurance
    • Flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance
    • Do not make assumptions – Check your policy