Flood.global

Flood preparedness checklist

Tick items off as you go. Your progress is saved in this browser, and you can print the list to keep with your emergency kit.

Reviewed October 2026

Floods can come with little warning, and roads may close before you can get to a store. The best time to work through this list is before a flood is in the forecast. Check your address to see your flood zone and any flood alerts in effect now.

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Protect your home before a flood

Check whether you have flood insurance (homeowners policies don't cover floods; a new NFIP policy usually takes 30 days to start)
Battery-backup sump pump installed and testedShop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Water leak alarms by the water heater, washer and basement floorShop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Gutters, downspouts and nearby storm drains cleared
Water-activated flood bags or sandbags ready for doorwaysShop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Furnace, water heater and electrical panel raised, if they're in a flood-prone basement
Valuables and important papers moved off the floor and out of the basement
Know how to shut off power, gas and water (a shutoff wrench helps)Shop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Photos or video of every room and your belongings, for an insurance claim

Go-bag, ready to leave in minutes

When a flood watch or warning is issued

Turn on flood alerts for your home (Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone, and the Flood.global app)
Charge phones and power banks
Move valuables, papers and electronics to the highest floor
Bring in or tie down outdoor furniture and trash cans
Put flood bags or sandbags across doorways
Know your route to higher ground, and leave right away if officials tell you to
Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if officials tell you to
Never walk, swim or drive through floodwater: turn around, don't drown

After the flood: cleanup supplies

Return home only when officials say it's safe
Photograph all damage before you clean, and call your insurer
Rubber boots and waterproof glovesShop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
N95 respirators for mold cleanupShop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Wet/dry vacuum for standing waterShop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Dehumidifier and fans to dry out within 24 to 48 hoursShop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Moisture meter to check walls and floors are really dryShop on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Household bleach for disinfecting (1 cup per gallon of water; never mix with ammonia)
Throw out food and medicine that touched floodwater

Keep it current

Check your go-bag once a year and replace expired food, water, medicines and batteries.
Test your sump pump before the rainy season: pour a bucket of water into the pit and make sure it starts.
Review your flood insurance when your policy renews. See flood insurance basics.
For more on each step, see how to prepare for a flood and what to do after a flood.
To check you have enough water and food for everyone, use SHTF Prep's emergency supply calculator.

Sources

Floods, FEMA Ready.gov
Build a kit, FEMA Ready.gov
Flood safety, CDC
Turn around, don't drown, National Weather Service