After the Flood

What to do after a Flood

It is important to wait until your local emergency personnel have announced it's safe to return home.

Beware Of Hazards

Be watchful and enter your home very carefully. Keep in mind that more than 150 people died in the cleanup effort after Hurricane Andrew.
Watch for snakes and other animals forced into your home by flood waters.
To prevent accidental fires, use flashlights, not candles, to see if power is on or off after a flood.
Look for fire hazards.
Keep children and pets inside. If pets must be walked outside, make sure they are leashed.

Repairing The Damage

Wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing as you begin cleaning up.
Check for structural damage such as loose plaster or damaged ceilings.
Throw away all foods, including canned goods, that have come into contact with flood waters; they may be tainted.
Check your electricity and water. If you suspect a gas leak, consult a professional immediately. If you suspect structural damage in your home, have a professional check your water, gas, electric, and sewer lines.
If your home has sustained damage, call your local chapter of the American Red Cross to get your copy of their booklet, "Repairing Your Flooded Home."

Assess Psychological Effects

In addition to the obvious physical damage, floods can sometimes cause emotional trauma and distress. Crisis counseling can help.
Should you or your family need or desire crisis counseling, contact your local American Red Cross Chapter for information about resources in your area.
Address your problems one at a time. Preparation may help you save lives and avoid injury. The rest can be rebuilt.

Tips to Remember

The following are guidelines for the period following a flood:

Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.
Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
Avoid moving water.
Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company.
Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.
Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.
Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.

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Get a Kit

Get an Emergency Supply Kit, which includes items like non-perishable food, water, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra flashlights and batteries.
Store it in your shelter location

Flood Insurance

Determine your flood insurance eligibility now. Damage caused by floods and high wind peril are often not covered in regular homeowners insurance.

Find out more from by contacting:

Your insurance agent
National Insurance Consumer Helpline (1-800-942-4242)
The Insurance Information Institute (1-800-331-9146)

Federal and National Resources

Find additional information on how to plan and prepare for floods, what to do during and after a flood and learn about available resources by visiting the following: