Flood Safety Basics

Flooding is the most common — and one of the most underestimated — natural disasters in the United States. It can happen far from any coast or river, and just a few inches of water can do serious damage. The good news is that most flood injuries are preventable with a few simple rules.

The one rule that matters most

Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Never walk or drive through floodwater.

• 6 inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet.
• 12 inches can float and sweep away most cars.
• 18–24 inches can carry off trucks and SUVs.

Floodwater also hides dangers you can’t see: debris, washed-out roads, sharp objects, and downed power lines that can electrify the water. If you come to a flooded road, turn around and find another way.

Before a flood

• Know your risk. Find out whether your home is in a flood-prone area.
• Move valuables and important documents to a higher floor or a waterproof container.
• Keep your go-bag ready and know your evacuation route to higher ground.
• If you have time before evacuating, turn off utilities at the main switches if instructed.

During a flood

• Get to higher ground immediately if water is rising.
• Evacuate when told to — don’t wait to see how bad it gets.
• Avoid basements and low rooms where water (and trapped electrical current) can collect.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you’re wet or standing in water.

After a flood

• Return only when authorities say it’s safe. Floodwater may still be contaminated or hiding damage.
• Don’t use wet appliances or outlets until they’ve been checked.
• Assume tap water is unsafe until officials confirm otherwise.
• Throw out food that touched floodwater, and document damage for insurance before cleaning up.

Floods give little warning, so the preparation you do ahead of time — knowing your route and keeping a kit ready — is what keeps a flood from becoming an emergency.