During a Flood Event

During a flood watch or warning, the following checklists will guide you through things to keep in mind before, during and after a flood happens.

When Flooding is Imminent

• Clear out essential belongings in basements or levels known to flood by bringing objects to higher floors or elevation.
• Remove debris and other objects from storm drains and gutters.
• If possible, bring outdoor belongings inside.
• Turn off utilities in flood-prone areas if safe to do so.
• Learn where your electric water and gas main shut offs are in your home.
• Stay informed about evacuation and sheltering plans.
• Know where, when, and how to obtain free sandbags if needed.
  • Individuals are encouraged to bring their own shovels for filling purposes.
  • Need help preparing your home? Request sandbag help from volunteers.
  • Video: How to Sandbag
• Avoid parking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall.
• Monitor lake levels.

During the Flood

• Turn Around, Don't Drown - avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
• If caught in floodwaters, act quickly - save yourself, not your belongings.
• Listen to public officials for current emergency information and instructions.
• If told to do so, evacuate immediately.
• Secure your home by locking all windows and doors before evacuating.
• Shut off water, gas, and electrical services.

After the Flood

• Seek necessary medical care.
• Monitor updates via public officials, NOAA Weather Radio, or local TV/radio stations.
• Let friends and family know you're safe.
• If evacuated, wait to return home until the area has been declared safe.
  • Do not return to a disaster area - this is unsafe and may hamper urgent emergency response and rescue operations.
• Follow recommended routes while watching out for washed out roads, downed trees, or power lines.
• Do NOT enter a building if it is still flooded or surrounded by floodwater.
• Check home for structural damage.
• Keep children and pets away form hazardous sites and floodwater.
• Take pictures of any damages for insurance purposes.
• Seek information relating to the closest Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) for immediate resources and services such as food, clothing, and first aid.

Returning Home

After officials have declared your home's area safe, follow these guidelines when returning home:

• Wear protective clothing including rubber gloves and boots when cleaning up.

  • The most common injury following a disaster is cut feet.
• Keep windows and doors open for ventilation.
• Do not turn on electrical appliances until they have been checked by an electrician.
• Do not use open flame as a source of light - use a flashlight.
• If the public water system has been declared unsafe by health officials, boil all water vigorously for 10 minutes before use.
• Throw away any medicine or food that has come in contact with water.
• Throw out items that absorb water and cannot be cleaned or disinfected.
• Pump out flooded basements or other flooded areas gradually (about 1/3 of the water per day) to avoid structural damage.
• Service damaged sewage systems as soon as possible.
• Follow City instructions for debris removal and disposal.
• Report the flooding you experience to the City.