California’s weather can be unpredictable, and flooding can happen anywhere in the state. During Flood Preparedness Week, take time to prepare your household, understand your risks and know what to do before, during and after a flood.
Floodwaters can be dangerous and rise quickly, leaving little time to react. A few simple steps today can help protect you, your family and your community.
6 Ways to Prepare for Flooding
- Gather Your Essentials
Prepare a go-bag with essential items you can grab quickly if you need to evacuate. Also, assemble a stay box, or disaster supply kit, with the supplies your household may need if you must shelter in place, including food, water, clothing, blankets and medications.
Learn what to pack in your Go-Bag and Stay Box.
- Create and Practice a Family Emergency Plan
Decide where your family will go, how you will communicate, and where you will meet if you become separated during an emergency. Make a list of important contacts and ensure everyone knows what to do.
Discuss and practice your plan now, while things are calm, so each family member understands their role.
Learn how to prepare a family emergency plan.
- Sign Up for Emergency Alerts and Check on Neighbors
Stay informed by signing up for local emergency alerts and monitoring updates from local officials. Share reliable information with family, friends and neighbors, and check on those who may need more help.
Visit Listos California to find information on signing up for local emergency alerts.
- Know Your Evacuation Routes
Know multiple routes out of your neighborhood and know where you can go if flooding threatens your area. Follow instructions from local officials and leave promptly when directed.
Understand the difference between an evacuation warning and an evacuation order so you can act quickly when conditions change. Never drive or walk through floodwaters.
Learn more about evacuation warnings and orders.
- Protect Important Documents and Valuables
Keep important documents, such as identification, insurance policies, and financial records, in a waterproof container. If flooding is possible, move valuables and essential items to higher levels of your home.
Consider keeping digital copies of important documents in a secure location you can access if you need to evacuate.
- Stay Informed About Weather Conditions
Monitor weather forecasts and emergency alerts before and during severe weather. A NOAA Weather Radio can provide weather information and emergency updates, including when power or cellular service is cut.
Make sure you have more than one way to receive alerts, and follow guidance from trusted weather and emergency management officials.
Take Action Before Flooding Happens
Flood preparedness starts before the rain begins. Build your emergency kits, review your family plan, sign up for alerts and learn your evacuation routes now.
For more preparedness resources and information, visit Ready.CA.gov.