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Flood Event Checklist: What to Do If You Live in a Flood-Prone Area

As floods become more frequent and severe across the United States, homeowners in flood-prone areas can no longer rely on luck or last-minute decisions. According to FEMA, just one inch of water can cause more than $25,000 in damage, and in many regions, storms arrive with far less warning than they used to.

Whether you live near the coast, close to a river, or in a neighborhood with poor drainage, having a clear, repeatable flood event checklist is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk and protect your property.

This guide walks you through exactly what to do before, during, and after a flood, with practical steps used by families who face flooding each year.


1. Long-Term Flood Preparedness (Before Flood Season)


Flood preparation doesn’t start when the rain begins, it starts months earlier.

These steps ensure your home and family are ready long before a storm forms.


Know Your Flood Risk


  • Check FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to understand your zone and potential water depth.

  • Review your flood insurance policy (standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage).

  • Assess which entry points are most vulnerable: doors, sliding doors, garages, and low windows.



Create and Maintain Emergency Supplies


A well-stocked emergency kit saves time when evacuation becomes necessary.

Include:

  • Water and non-perishable food (3 days minimum)

  • Flashlights, batteries, portable chargers

  • First-aid kit and essential medications

  • Copies of important documents sealed in waterproof bags

  • Pet supplies


Strengthen Your Home’s Flood Resistance


Small improvements can make a major difference in reducing water damage:

  • Elevate major appliances such as washers, dryers, and HVAC systems

  • Install backflow valves and sump pump backup systems

  • Seal cracks around foundations, basements, and window frames


Plan Flood Barriers Before the Storm Arrives


Every home in a flood-prone area needs a strategy for entry-point protection. Homeowners increasingly choose removable flood barriers because they can be deployed quickly and don’t permanently alter the home.


Inflatable systems like FlowStop’s custom-made flood barriers offer:

  • Fast installation (usually under 5 minutes per doorway without any tool)

  • Compact storage

  • Custom sizing for doors, garages, and sliding doors

This is one of the most important items to prepare before flood season. Waiting until a storm arrives may be too late.



2. When a Flood Watch Is Issued: Immediate Preparation


A Flood Watch means conditions may lead to flooding. This is your window to prepare your home efficiently!


Monitor Official Alerts


Stay updated through:


Charge All Essential Devices


Charge:

  • Phones

  • Backup battery packs

  • Flashlights or rechargeable lanterns

If you lose power, you don’t want to lose communication.


Prepare the Exterior of Your Home


  • Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, trash bins, and loose objects

  • Clean gutters and downspouts to increase water flow

  • Ensure your generator, propane tanks, and fuel sources are safe and elevated


Install Your Flood Barriers


This is the moment to activate your flood-protection plan.

For Flowstop users, the process is simple:


  1. Clean the doorway or entry surface

  2. Place and unroll the barrier

  3. Inflate fully

  4. Ensure proper seal and strap placement (where applicable)

Quick deployment means you still have time to focus on other safety tasks.



3. When a Flood Warning Is Announced (Flooding Is Expected or Happening)


A Flood Warning means flooding will occur or is already occurring. Safety becomes the top priority.


Stay Indoors and Avoid Floodwater


Just six inches of moving water can knock a person over; a foot of water can sweep away a car.


Move to Higher Ground Inside Your Home


  • Bring pets, essential devices, medications, and chargers

  • Avoid using the basement during a flood event, as pressure can make doors unsafe


Turn Off Utilities If Instructed


Local authorities may instruct you to shut off:

  • Electricity

  • Gas

  • Water

Never touch electrical panels if they are wet or if water is nearby.


Keep Barrier Entry Points Clear


If you’re using flood barriers like FlowStop, ensure:

  • No objects press against the barrier

  • You don’t attempt to adjust or move the barrier during flooding

  • You monitor water levels and entry points from a safe distance



4. After the Flood: Cleanup and Recovery

Once water recedes, damage control and documentation begin.


Document Everything for Insurance


Take photos and videos before moving anything. Include:

  • Water lines

  • Damaged furniture

  • Affected walls, floors, and appliances

  • Exterior damage

This speeds up the claims process significantly.


Wear Protective Gear During Cleanup


Floodwater often contains bacteria, chemicals, and debris.

Use:

  • Waterproof boots

  • Gloves

  • Masks

  • Eye protection


Avoid Electrical Systems


Do not turn power back on until an electrician confirms it’s safe.


Remove Wet Materials Quickly


Mold begins forming within 24–48 hours.


Dispose of:

  • Wet drywall

  • Insulation

  • Carpets

  • Soft furniture, if saturated




Inspect and Clean Your Flood Barriers


For FlowStop users:

  • Rinse barriers with clean water

  • Allow to dry completely before storage

  • Inspect valves, seams, and straps

  • Store in a cool, dry place for the next event

This ensures your equipment remains ready for the next storm season.



5. Free Printable Flood Preparedness Checklist

Consider creating a printable PDF version for your refrigerator or emergency binder:


Before Flood Season

  • Review flood zone

  • Prepare emergency kit

  • Inspect home for vulnerabilities

  • Install or prepare flood barriers


When a Flood Watch Is Issued

  • Monitor alerts

  • Charge devices

  • Secure outdoor items

  • Deploy barrier systems


When a Flood Warning Is Issued

  • Stay indoors

  • Move to higher levels

  • Shut off utilities if instructed

  • Keep barriers clear


After the Flood

  • Document damage

  • Wear protective gear

  • Begin safe cleanup

  • Inspect and store equipment

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Conclusion: Be Ready.


Flooding events are increasing across the United States, but the right preparation can dramatically reduce property damage and keep your family safe. A simple, step-by-step flood checklist ensures you’re ready long before water reaches your home.

Custom flood barriers—like the inflatable Flowstop system—give homeowners a fast, reliable way to protect doors, garages, and sliding doors when storms approach. Combined with the checklist above, they form a complete flood-preparedness plan you can trust.

Want to learn which Flowstop barrier fits your home? Get a free quote today.

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