Floods are one of the most frequent and expensive natural disasters in the U.S., and they often strike with little warning. Whether you live in a high-risk flood zone or an area that rarely sees flooding, it’s important to be aware of the top flood safety tips on how to stay safe before, during, and after a flood. 

At Flood Response Assistance, we believe flood safety starts with preparation. The goal is simple: protect lives, reduce damage to homes and businesses, and help communities bounce back faster.

Here are the top flood safety tips everyone should know:

Flood Safety Tips

Before a Flood: Prepare

1. Know Your Risk - Use FEMA’s flood maps or consult a flood expert to understand the flood risk for your property. Even if you're in a “low-risk” zone, floods can still happen - and they often do. In fact, over 20% of flood claims come from property owners in low-risk areas.

2. Create a Flood Emergency Plan - Make a plan that includes evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and safe locations. Practice the plan with your family or team so everyone knows what to do when time is critical.

3. Sign Up for Alerts - Stay connected by signing up for local emergency alerts and NOAA Weather Radio updates. Early warnings can save lives.

4. Prepare Your Property

• Install flood protection barriers if your property is at risk.
• Clear drains and gutters to help water flow away from your building.
• Elevate critical utilities like electrical panels, heating systems, and appliances.
• Keep important documents in a waterproof container or stored digitally.
  

5. Stock an Emergency Kit - Include water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, medications, a first-aid kit, blankets, and essential documents.

During a Flood: Stay Safe

6. Don’t Wait to Evacuate - If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. Floodwaters can rise quickly and cut off escape routes.

7. Avoid Walking or Driving Through Flood Water - Just six inches of water can knock you over, and one foot of water can carry away most vehicles. “Turn around, don’t drown.”

8. Stay Informed - Continue listening to weather updates and follow guidance from local officials. Flood conditions can change rapidly.

9. Move to Higher Ground - If trapped at home, head to the highest floor—but avoid attics without ventilation. You could become trapped by rising water.

After a Flood: Be Cautious

10. Wait for the All-Clear - Only return home or to your business when officials declare it safe to do so.

11. Watch for Hazards - Flood water may be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or debris. Avoid contact and wear protective gear during cleanup.

12. Document the Damage - Take photos and videos of your property for insurance claims before beginning any cleanup or repairs.

13. Prevent Future Flood Damage - Schedule a flood vulnerability assessment and explore custom flood protection solutions. Our team at Flood Response Assistance can help you create a plan that keeps your business or home protected year-round.

Stay Ready With Flood Response Assistance

At Flood Response Assistance, we provide proactive flood maintenance plans, custom protection strategies, and 24/7 flood panel deployment support. We help you reduce damage, recover faster, and stay prepared for whatever the weather brings.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your property before the next storm hits.