How to Prepare for a Flood

Home Resources Emergency Preparedness Floods

Next to fire, floods are the most common disasters. Flooding on your property can happen anytime and for various reasons–excessive rain or snow, swollen rivers, or even a plumbing failure. Just one inch of water can cause major damage to your facility.

Prepare

Preparing now can minimize property damage and danger caused by flood. First, be sure you have an emergency plan in place that has been communicated to everyone on staff. Stock up on emergency supplies, like sandbags, shovels, sump pumps, and more. Have easy access to a water pump, emergency apparel, such as rain suits, and dehumidifiers.

Have an evacuation plan
Have an emergency kit with battery-operated radio, flashlight, food, and water
Raise up electrical components
Clear debris from gutters and downspouts
Check valves in sewer traps to prevent backup
Seal walls with waterproofing compounds

Water-Resistant Flashlights

Water Level Alarms

Respond

If flooding is likely, stay informed by listening to the radio and news reports. Be ready to act on your evacuation plan, and remember these tips:

Do not touch electrical equipment if wet or standing in water
Do not try to walk or drive through flooded areas
Avoid contact with flood water – it could be contaminated
Stay out of buildings surrounded by floodwaters
Service damaged sewage systems ASAP – they pose a serious health risk

Recover

Once floodwaters have cleared, it's time to recover and rebuild. Acting quickly can help reduce the growth of bacteria, mold, rust, and may salvage some items. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out rooms. Remember to wear protective clothing and gloves and disinfect everything with proper disinfectant cleaners–floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.