The water is here. Seconds count. Follow these life-safety directives in order — prioritize yourself and your family over property.
Flooding is the #1 most deadly weather event in the US — and most deaths are preventable. Know these facts.
Follow these steps immediately. Priority is non-negotiable — life first, property last.
Go to the highest level of your building. If water is rising rapidly, prioritize getting above flood level above anything else. Only access the roof as an absolute last resort — it limits your rescue options.
Turn around — don't drown. Six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down. One foot can sweep your car away. Floodwater may conceal open drains, downed power lines, and road washouts. There is no safe floodwater.
Only if you can do so without stepping in water. Floodwater conducts electricity. Never touch any electrical appliance, switch, or outlet while standing in or near water — even a small current can cause electrocution.
Floodwater can displace gas lines. If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave immediately and do not operate any switches. Shut off gas at the exterior meter using a wrench — only if safe to do so.
If trapped, signal from a window or rooftop using a bright cloth, flashlight, or phone light. Blow a whistle in 3-blast sequences (international distress signal). Conserve your voice — shouting wastes energy and can be hard to hear over water.
Even after water recedes, floodwater leaves behind hidden dangers: structural weakness, contamination, downed lines, and unstable ground. Wait for official all-clear from local authorities before re-entering.
If your car is swept into floodwater, you have approximately 90 seconds before the electrical system fails and the windows won't open. Unbuckle immediately. Open or break a side window — not the door (water pressure makes it impossible). Push out and swim at an angle to the current toward shore. Do not wait for the car to fill with water before attempting to exit.
Answer the questions below for immediate, situation-specific guidance.
If you cannot evacuate, make yourself visible and signal your location to rescuers using the methods below.
Flash a flashlight or phone screen toward the sky in a consistent pattern. At night, this is visible from rescue helicopters up to a mile away.
Hang a bright red, orange, or white cloth from your highest window or rooftop. Move it slowly back and forth to distinguish it from debris.
Three short blasts is the universal distress signal. Repeat every few minutes. A whistle carries much farther than your voice and uses far less energy.
During disasters, SMS texts get through when calls can't. Text your location and status to 911 (if available in your area) or to family who can relay to rescuers.
Stay at the highest window and remain visible. Rescue boats and helicopters scan windows. A waving person is one of the most effective signals.
Have your complete street address memorized or written down. When you reach 911, give your full address first — before anything else.
Tap each item as you complete it. Emergencies are chaotic — this keeps you focused.