During & After a Flood

During a flood storm

• During a power failure, turn off Televisions, computers and other appliances to prevent power surge damage when electricity is restored.
• Don't open the refrigerator or freezer unless necessary.
• Move valuables off the floor and up to higher ground, the second floor of a home, if available.
• Tune in to radio and television stations for emergency information and instructions from local authorities.
• Use the telephone only for emergency needs or to report dangerous conditions.
• If authorities call for a voluntary evacuation, leave before road access is cut off by floodwater. Establish an out-of-state "family contact" so that friends and relatives will know whom to call to get information about where you are.
• Don't drive over a flooded road. You could get stranded and trapped.
• Don't try crossing a flowing stream where water is above your knees.
• If the car stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground.
• Avoid unnecessary trips. If you must travel during the storm, dress in appropriate rain gear with warm, loose layers of clothing. Tell others where you are going.

After a flood

• When re-entering a flooded home or area, wear boots and clothing that covers your body. Assume everything could be contaminated by sewage and you'll be safer from injury and infection. Wear sturdy rubber gloves to handle anything that has been touched by flood water.
• Don't handle live electrical equipment in wet areas. If they've been in contact with water, have them checked before use.
• Avoid downed power lines and broken gas lines. Report them immediately to the electric or gas company, police or fire department. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the house immediately and call the local gas utility company from another location.
• Once inside the home, step carefully. Floors will be slippery from water and mud. Watch out for snakes, loose flooring, holes and dislodged nails.
• Check for a sagging or waterlogged ceiling. To release water from a ceiling, poke a small hole at the edge of the sag to let the water begin to drain. Keep poking holes as you move to the lowest point of the sag. When tearing it down, be careful of its weight.
• Don't use contaminated water to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food or drink.
• Dispose of any foods that came in contact with flood water. Undamaged canned goods can be saved, but remove the labels, wash and disinfect the cans and re-label.
• Disinfect hard surfaces, such as floors, walls and counters, that may have been contaminated by floodwaters. Disinfect dishes, glasses, plastic and toys, too. Use 3/4 cup of bleach per gallon of water. Keep wet for five minutes and rinse.
• Bring a camera and note pad to itemize damage. Bring a first-aid kit for minor injuries during cleanup.
• Use battery operated torches to examine buildings. Avoid using lanterns, matches or candles as flammables may be inside.
• Don't use central air conditioning or central heat if the ducts were under water. They could blow out dirty air that might contain contaminates. Clean or hose out the ducts first, or if damage is severe, replace the system.
• Stay tuned to radio or television for information and instructions from emergency officials.