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flood imageThis file is available for print or distribution in PDF (121K). PDF files require a free reader. Also available in Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Russian and Vietnamese. Download a reader. This document was produced in cooperation with the Emergency Management Division of the Washington State Military Department.

Floods

Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters. If you live in an area where floods occur, you should know the following.

 

What to do before a flood

  • Plan for evacuation including where you are going to go and the route you will follow.

  • Prepare your home for a flood. Call your local building department or office of emergency management for information.

  • Purchase flood insurance.

  • Keep all insurance policies and a list of valuable items in a safe place.

  • Take photos or a videotape of the valuables you keep in your home.

  • Listen to your radio or television for reports of flood danger.

  • Keep your car filled with gas.

    •

    What to do during a flood

  • Do not try to walk or drive through flooded areas. Water can be deeper than it appears and water levels rise quickly. Follow official emergency evacuation routes. If your car stalls in floodwater, get out quickly and move to higher ground.

  • Stay away from moving water; moving water six inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Cars are easily swept away in just two feet of water.

  • Stay away from disaster areas unless authorities ask for volunteers.

  • Stay away from downed power lines.

  • If your home is flooded, turn the utilities off until emergency officials tell you it is safe to turn them on. Do not pump the basement out until floodwater recedes. Avoid weakened floors, walls and rooftops.

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water if you come in contact with floodwaters.

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    What to do after a flood

    • Wear gloves and boots when cleaning up.

    • Open all doors and windows. Use fans if possible to air out the building.

    • Wash all clothes and linens in hot water.

    • Discard mattresses and stuffed furniture. They can't be adequately cleaned.

    • Wash dirt and mud from walls, counters and hard surfaced floors with soap and water. Disinfect by wiping surfaces with a solution of one cup bleach per gallon of water.

    • Discard all food that has come into contact with floodwater. Canned food is alright, but thoroughly wash the can before opening.

    • If your well is flooded, your tap water is probably unsafe. If you have public water, the health department will let you know—through radio and television—if your water is not safe to drink. Until your water is safe, use clean bottled water.

    • Learn how to purify water. If you have a well, learn how to decontaminate it.

    • Do not use your septic system when water is standing on the ground around it. The ground below will not absorb water from sinks or toilets. When the soil has dried, it is probably safe to again use your septic system. To be sure, contact your local health department.

    • When floodwaters have receded, watch out for weakened road surfaces.

    Revised - October 2006

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