Guides

Flood Safety: Essential Guidelines for Families

June 17, 2026 · The Clime Team

Floods can pose significant risks to families, but with proper preparation and knowledge, you can safeguard your loved ones and minimize potential damage. This guide provides essential steps to ensure your family's safety before, during, and after a flood.

What Should Families Do Before a Flood?

Develop a Family Emergency Plan

Communication Strategy: Establish a clear plan for how your family will communicate during an emergency. Designate an out-of-state contact person who can serve as a central point of contact. Ensure all family members know how to reach this person. (cdc.gov)
Evacuation Routes: Identify and practice multiple evacuation routes from your home to safe areas. Familiarize yourself with local evacuation plans and shelters. (cdc.gov)

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Assemble a kit with essential supplies:

Water and Food: Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person per day. (cdc.gov)
First Aid Supplies: Include a first aid kit with necessary medications and medical supplies.
Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure you have reliable lighting sources and extra batteries.
Important Documents: Keep copies of important documents in a waterproof container.

Protect Your Home

Elevate Utilities: Raise electrical appliances, switches, and sockets above potential flood levels. (cdc.gov)
Install Backflow Valves: Prevent sewage backups by installing backflow valves in drains and toilets. (cdc.gov)
Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or securely anchor outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become hazardous in floodwaters. (cdc.gov)

How Can Families Stay Safe During a Flood?

Monitor Weather Updates

Stay Informed: Regularly check local news and weather services for flood warnings and updates. (cdc.gov)

Evacuate Promptly

Follow Official Instructions: If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. Do not wait for the last minute. (cdc.gov)
Avoid Floodwaters: Never drive or walk through flooded areas. Even shallow water can be dangerous. Remember the adage: "Turn around, don't drown!" (cdc.gov)

Protect Your Health

Avoid Contaminated Water: Floodwaters can contain harmful bacteria and chemicals. Stay out of floodwater to prevent illness. (cdc.gov)
Use Safe Water: If you must use water from a well or other source, ensure it's safe by boiling or treating it before consumption. (cdc.gov)

What Should Families Do After a Flood?

Ensure Safety Before Reentry

Inspect for Hazards: Before entering your home, check for structural damage, gas leaks, and electrical hazards. If you suspect any issues, contact professionals before reentering. (cdc.gov)
Wait for Official Clearance: Only return home when authorities declare it safe. (cdc.gov)

Clean and Disinfect

Dry Out Your Home: Remove standing water and dry out your home as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth. (cdc.gov)
Clean Contaminated Items: Disinfect all items that came into contact with floodwater to prevent disease. (cdc.gov)

Monitor Health

Seek Medical Attention: If you or your family members experience symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or skin rashes after exposure to floodwater, consult a healthcare professional. (cdc.gov)

How Can Families Comfort Children During a Flood?

Provide Reassurance

Maintain Routine: As much as possible, keep daily routines to provide a sense of normalcy.
Listen and Validate Feelings: Encourage children to express their feelings and validate their emotions.

Ensure Safety

Keep Children Away from Floodwaters: Ensure children do not play in or near floodwaters to prevent injury and illness. (cdc.gov)
Monitor for Hazards: Be vigilant for potential hazards like downed power lines or displaced animals. (cdc.gov)

By following these guidelines, families can enhance their preparedness and resilience in the face of flooding, ensuring the safety and well-being of all members.

Highlights:

Safety Guidelines: Floodwater | Floods | CDC, Published on Monday, February 05
Safety Guidelines: Reentering Your Flooded Home | Floods | CDC, Published on Monday, February 05
Preparing for Floods | Floods | CDC, Published on Monday, February 05