Floods are the #1 natural disaster in the world—are you ready to protect your home? Whether you live in a flood-prone area or not, being prepared for an incoming flood can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the five most important steps to prepare for a flood and protect your home, belongings, and loved ones. Plus, you’ll find recommended items you can easily order on Amazon to complete your flood preparedness kit.
1. Install Flood Barriers: Your First Line of Defense
When you prepare for a flood, the first thing to consider is how to stop the water from entering your home. Flood barriers, also known as sandbags or water dams, are essential in flood-prone areas. These barriers block water from entering doorways, garages, and lower windows.
Why You Need Them:
Flood barriers are quick to deploy, effective at redirecting water, and reusable. Modern options include portable flood barriers, which are lightweight and easier to set up than traditional sandbags.
Recommended Products on Amazon:
2. Move Valuables to Waterproof Containers
One of the best ways to prepare for a flood is by moving important documents, electronics, and other valuables into waterproof containers. These will help keep your essential items safe from water damage in case your home is breached.
Why You Need Them:
From birth certificates to family photo albums, some things are irreplaceable. Keeping them safe in a waterproof container ensures they stay dry even in the worst conditions.
Recommended Products on Amazon:
- IRIS 19 Qt. Waterproof Storage Box
- SentrySafe Waterproof Fireproof Safe
- Watertight Storage Container with Handle
3. Set Up a Sump Pump to Drain Water Away
If your home has a basement or is located on a slope, installing a sump pump is critical to preventing flood damage. A sump pump removes water from your home’s foundation and redirects it away, helping to keep your basement or crawl space dry. Consider how you would power the sump pump if the electricity is out. If you do not have a power source, consider a cordless option.
Why You Need It:
Sump pumps prevent water from accumulating in your basement, which can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage. They are also useful to remove water from other locations around your home during heavy rains or when floodwaters rise quickly.
Recommended Products on Amazon:
- Zoeller M53 Mighty-Mate Submersible Sump Pump
- Cordless Submersible Water Pump for Dewalt
- WAYNE WaterBUG Submersible Pump
- Superior Pump 91250 Utility Pump
4. Elevate Electrical Devices and Appliances
To prepare for a flood, it’s essential to protect your electrical devices and appliances. Floodwater can damage or destroy these items, and they pose a severe safety risk if water comes into contact with them. Elevate appliances like washing machines, dryers, and electrical outlets at least a foot above the expected flood level.
Why You Need It:
This is a crucial safety measure that could save you from both costly damage and hazardous electrical accidents. Relocating them or placing them on platforms minimizes your risk and makes cleanup easier afterward.
Recommended Products on Amazon:
5. Seal Foundation Cracks and Leaks
Sealing cracks in your home’s foundation, windows, and walls is another essential step to prepare for a flood. Small leaks can quickly become major flood pathways if left untreated. Use caulking, weather stripping, and waterproof sealants to reinforce your home.
Why You Need It:
Even a tiny crack can let in gallons of water. Sealing these cracks reduces the risk of water damage to your home’s interior and helps maintain your home’s structural integrity during a flood.
Recommended Products on Amazon:
- Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape
- GE Waterproof Silicone Caulk
- Flex Seal Liquid Rubber Sealant
- Flex Seal Removable Liquid Flood Protection
Flood Preparedness Checklists: What You Need to Protect Your Home
The Red Cross “Flood Preparedness Checklist” provides essential advice on how to prepare for, stay safe during, and recover from floods. It covers understanding flood risks, making evacuation plans, avoiding floodwaters, and turning off utilities. The checklist also highlights health precautions like preventing carbon monoxide poisoning and mold. For detailed guidance on protecting yourself and your family during floods, this resource from the Red Cross is highly recommended:
Here’s a quick checklist of the essential items mentioned in this guide to help you prepare for a flood and protect your home. You can find all of these on Amazon:
- Flood Barriers:
- Waterproof Containers for Valuables:
- Sump Pump:
- Elevated Stands and Cable Management:
- Sealants and Caulking:
Preparing your home for a flood doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking these key steps to protect your property, you’ll reduce your risk of water damage and be ready to weather the storm. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start building your flood preparedness kit today!
Download or print this free flood prep clicklist below:
