Home flooding: what to do?

Flooding in your home is dangerous and stressful. The priority is to protect people, not property. Floodwater can carry sewage, chemicals, sharp debris, and hidden electrical hazards. Follow these steps to stay safe and reduce harm.

Emergency warning

If water is rising quickly, if anyone is trapped or injured, or if you smell gas or see sparks, call local emergency services immediately. Do not wait. If you are in immediate danger, evacuate to higher ground or a safe location.

What to do first

1. Get to safety. Move to a higher floor or leave the building if instructed. Never enter a flooded basement or room with standing water.
2. Call for help if needed. If you are trapped or see downed power lines, call emergency services. Do not approach downed lines.
3. Shut off utilities only if you can do so safely and without wading through water. Turn off electricity at the main breaker and gas at the meter. If the area is wet or you must stand in water, do not touch the panel; wait for a professional.
4. Avoid contact with floodwater. It can contain bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. If you must be near it, wear rubber boots and gloves. Wash hands thoroughly after any contact.
5. Document damage when safe. Once the area is secure and water has receded, take photos and videos for insurance claims. Do not enter unsafe structures.

What NOT to do

• Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwater. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and a foot can sweep away a vehicle.
• Do not touch electrical equipment or outlets in wet areas. This includes cords, appliances, and the breaker panel if you are standing in water.
• Do not use gas appliances or generators indoors. Carbon monoxide can build up silently and kill.
• Do not eat or drink anything that touched floodwater. Throw away food, bottled water, and medications that were submerged.
• Do not re-enter your home until authorities say it is safe. Structural damage and contamination may not be visible.

When to seek professional help

Call a licensed electrician, plumber, or restoration professional if your home has been flooded. They can assess hidden damage, check for mold, and ensure utilities are safe to restore. If you experience symptoms like fever, nausea, or breathing problems after cleanup, seek medical care.

What to monitor

• Water levels and weather warnings from local authorities.
• Structural signs: cracks, sagging ceilings, or doors that no longer close.
• Gas odors or hissing sounds; leave immediately and call the gas company from a safe distance.
• Mold growth in the days after flooding; it can cause respiratory issues.

How to prevent future flooding

• Keep gutters and drains clear.
• Install a sump pump with a battery backup if you have a basement.
• Elevate electrical panels and appliances above expected flood levels.
• Consider flood barriers or landscaping that directs water away from your foundation.

After a flood, your safety and health come first. Follow guidance from local emergency officials, and do not rush back into a damaged home. For insurance claims, contact your provider once it is safe to do so.

This is general information and not a substitute for professional emergency or medical advice. In an emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.