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Flooding Safety

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters. It can happen anywhere, at any time. Heavy rain, melting snow or blocked storm drains can cause floods. Flooding can affect your health, your home and your safety. It can also impact local infrastructure, roads and utilities. 

Floodwaters can rise quickly. Be prepared, stay alert, and know what to do before, during and after a flood. 

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Know Your Flood Risk 

A few inches of water can cause major damage. 

You are most at risk during: 

  • Flash flood watches and warnings 
  • Snowmelt 
  • Heavy thunderstorms 
  • Long periods of rainfall 

Stay Informed 

Download the free Ready Erie App to receive notifications, locate emergency shelters, view up-to-date evacuation maps, create a personalized emergency preparedness plan and more. 

Sign up for the City of Buffalo BUFFALERT System to receive emergency alerts and severe weather warnings that could directly impact you and your family. 

Listen to commercial radio and television stations for the latest weather conditions.  

Before a Flood 

Planning ahead can save lives and reduce damage. 

Protect Your Home 

  • Clean gutters and make sure storm drains are clear. 
  • Consider purchasing flood insurance. 
  • Keep important documents in a waterproof container. 

Emergency Kit Essentials 

Pack: 

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for at least 3 days) 
  • Non-perishable food (3-day supply) 
  • Flashlights and batteries 
  • First aid kit 
  • Medications and important documents 
  • Phone charger or power bank 
  • Pet supplies 

Make a Plan 

  • Know your evacuation routes and local shelters. 
  • Talk with your family and include pets in your plans. 
  • Be ready to turn off utilities if advised by officials.  

During a Flood 

If You Are Indoors 

  • Move to higher ground or the highest floor in your home. 
  • Stay out of basements or below ground level. 
  • Avoid using electrical appliances in wet areas. 

If You Are Outdoors

  • Turn around, don’t drown. Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.  
  • Stay away from bridges over fast-moving water. 
  • Avoid downed power lines. 
  • If you are trapped in your car, get on the roof.  

If You Are Told to Evacuate 

  • Evacuate immediately. Do not wait. 
  • Bring your emergency kit, important documents, and pets. 
  • Follow official routes and never drive through flooded roads.  

After a Flood 

Health and Home Safety 

  • Return only when officials say it is safe. 
  • Avoid floodwater, which may be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or debris. 
  • Use gloves, boots, and a mask when cleaning. 
  • Watch for mold. People with asthma or lung issues should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks.  
  • Children should not take part in the clean up process.  

Electrical Hazards 

  • Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet. 
  • Turn off electricity to prevent electric shock if possible.  

Food and Water Safety 

  • Throw away food and medicine that came into contact with floodwater. 
  • Do not drink tap water unless it is declared safe. 
  • Follow boil water advisories if they are in effect. 

Community 

  • Check in on neighbors, especially older adults, families with young children, and people with disabilities. 
  • Talk to a mental health professional or crisis counselor if you need support.  
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