Quick Answer
If your home is in a flood zone, prioritize flood insurance, elevate or reinforce your home's foundation, and keep essential supplies and emergency kits accessible.
Preparing for a Flood
If you live in a flood zone, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect your home and family. Elevating your home’s foundation can be an effective way to prevent flood damage. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), elevating a home to at least one foot above the projected flood elevation can reduce damage by up to 80%. Additionally, reinforcing your home’s foundation with flood-resistant materials can help prevent water from entering your home.
Flood Safety and Escape
In the event of a flood, it’s essential to prioritize your family’s safety and escape. If you’re caught in a flash flood, seek high ground immediately. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they can be deceptively deep and swift. According to the National Weather Service, six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet, while two feet of water can sweep your vehicle away. Instead, move to higher ground or a safe location, such as a second-story room or a designated flood shelter.
Staying Safe in a Flooded Vehicle
If you’re driving and encounter floodwaters, don’t attempt to drive through them. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), it’s safer to turn back and find an alternate route than to risk being swept away by floodwaters. If your vehicle becomes stranded in floodwaters, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and wait for help to arrive. Avoid trying to start the engine or open doors until the water level has receded.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.