Preparing For A Flood

Some areas of NJ are more likely to flood. Contact the local or County Office of Emergency Management to determine local risk levels. Stay informed about weather conditions. A Flood or Flash Flood Watch means flooding or flash flooding is possible, while a Flood or Flash Flood Warning means a flood or flash flood is imminent or is already occurring.

Standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover flooding; there is little protection without it. Learn more about FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program and protect the home.

In addition to building an emergency kit, these tips from FEMA and NJOEM can help you prepare for flooding. 

• Listen to a battery-powered radio or television for the latest storm information and instructions from Public Safety Officials.
• Fill bathtubs, sinks, and jugs with clean water.
• Move valuables, such as papers, jewelry, and clothing, to upper floors or higher elevations.
• Bring outdoor items, such as lawn furniture and trash cans, inside or tie them down securely.
• If instructed, shut off the water and electricity. Leave natural gas service ON unless local officials advise otherwise.
• Fill the car's gas tank.

Flooding is commonly one of the side effects of a hurricane. Learn more about Preparing for a Hurricane. 

During a flood, people should go to the upper floors of their homes. If water begins to rise inside the house, retreat to an upper floor, the attic, and, if necessary, the roof.

If directed to evacuate:

• Follow the instructions of public safety officials and leave as soon as possible. Use travel routes specified by local authorities and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges. 
• Bring an Emergency Kit.
• Dress for the weather with a minimum of a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and sturdy shoes.
• Take your pets with you. 
• Lock your home.
• Stay away from downed power lines.
• If there is time, call family to tell them where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
• If instructed, shut off water and electricity before leaving. Leave natural gas service ON unless local officials advise you otherwise.

Floodwaters may carry raw sewage, chemical waste, disease-spreading substances, and electric currents from downed powerlines. If touching floodwaters, wash hands with soap and disinfected water. Floodwater is often deeper than it appears and has a current. Do not attempt to drive, walk, or swim to safety through floodwaters. 

• Return home only after authorities advise it is safe. For information on recovery, keep tuned to your local radio and TV stations.
• Beware of downed or loose power lines and report them to the power company, police, or fire department.
• Avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
• Clean and disinfect everything that was touched by floodwaters.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
• Beware of snakes, insects, and other animals being driven to higher ground by floodwater.
• Clean and disinfect everything that was touched by floodwaters.
• Do not use candles or open flames indoors. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage.
• Beware of the potential for electrocution. Wear rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes to avoid electrocution. Do not turn on any lights or appliances if the house has been flooded. Leave the electricity off when checking electrical circuits and equipment or in a flooded basement.
• Check for structural damage before re-entering your home. Watch for falling debris and the possibility of collapsing ceilings and basement walls. Do NOT go in if there is a chance the building will collapse.
• Let relatives know you are back home. Tell them how to contact you if the phone lines are still down.