Do this first
- 1Move to higher ground now. Don't wait for the water to reach you.
- 2If told to evacuate, go immediately.
- 3Turn around, don't drown: never walk or drive through floodwater.
- 4If you can do it safely and are not standing in water, turn off utilities at the main switches if officials tell you to.
- 5Trapped by rising water: go to the highest floor and call 911. Get on the roof only if you must — never climb into a closed attic.
What to grab
- Go-bag, phone, and charger.
- Medications and important papers — only if there is time.
- Pets and their supplies.
Where to go
- High ground, away from rivers, streams, and low-lying areas.
- The shelter local officials name, or friends and family inland.
What NOT to do
- Don't walk through moving water — 6 inches can knock you off your feet.
- Don't drive through flooded roads — 12 inches can carry a car away.
- Don't touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
- Don't go home until officials say it is safe.
- Don't touch floodwater more than you have to — it can carry sewage and chemicals.
All emergenciesGeneral guidance only. In a life-threatening emergency, call 911 and follow instructions from local officials.