Flood first-hour survival checklist

Before you act

First-hour steps

1. Move to higher ground and away from basements, underpasses, drainage channels, and low roads.
2. If a road is covered by water, turn around immediately. Do not test depth with a vehicle.
3. Put IDs, medication, phone, cash, keys, and a power bank into a waterproof bag.
4. Text your location and intended route to a trusted contact before networks become overloaded.
5. If water is entering a building, move upward by stairs and avoid elevators.
6. Avoid touching electrical panels, appliances, or outlets while standing in or near water.
7. After reaching safety, monitor local emergency updates and do not return until officials say the route is safe.

Do not do this

• Do not drive through flooded roads, even in a truck or SUV.
• Do not walk through moving water unless escape requires it.
• Do not enter basements, tunnels, or parking garages while water is rising.
• Do not touch floodwater with open wounds if it can be avoided.
• Do not assume water is safe because it looks shallow or still.
• Do not return home until local officials confirm roads and utilities are safe.

Kit items to check

• Portable Water Filter · Floods, outages, evacuation bags, and boil-water advisories.
• Waterproof Dry Bag · Keep IDs, medicine, power banks, and cash usable in heavy rain.
• Rechargeable Headlamp · Hands-free light for sheltering, first aid, repairs, and night evacuation.
• NOAA Weather Radio · Reliable warnings when mobile networks or power are down.
• Compact First Aid Kit · Cuts, burns, sprains, and basic wound care after storms or evacuation.