Purpose

This page provides general flood preparedness awareness for households and families.

Scope and Limits

This information is for planning and risk recognition only.

It does not provide rescue, construction, medical, or repair instructions.

Authority Override

Official instructions from local, provincial, or federal authorities override this page at all times.

If authorities issue evacuation or safety orders, follow them immediately.

FAST FACTS THAT AFFECT LIFE SAFETY

• Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster in North America

• As little as 15 cm (6 inches) of moving water can knock a person off their feet

• Approximately 30 cm (12 inches) of water can move or stall a vehicle

• Most flood-related deaths occur when people walk or drive through floodwaters

• Flash floods can develop within minutes, even far from rainfall

• Never go into the Attic to escape flooding. It is a death trap! Always make sure you have an escape when going to higher ground such as a window for roof access.

WHY FLOODS ARE SO DANGEROUS

Fast-moving water

Even shallow water can cause loss of balance, injury, or entrapment.

Contamination

Floodwater often contains sewage, chemicals, fuel, and sharp debris.

Infrastructure failure

Roads, bridges, and utilities may be undermined or collapse without warning.

Health risks after flooding

Standing water and wet materials promote contamination and mold growth.

Delayed emergency response

Flooding can isolate communities and delay rescue or medical assistance.

HIGH-RISK AREAS

• Coastal and tidal communities

• River valleys and floodplains

• Urban areas with poor drainage

• Low-lying or flat terrain

• Areas downstream from dams or levees

WARNING SIGNS AND ACTION TRIGGERS

Warning Signs (What You May Observe)

• Rising water near buildings or roads

• Overflowing rivers, creeks, or drainage systems

• Water covering normally dry ground

Triggers (When Action Is Required)

• Flood or flash flood warnings from authorities

• Evacuation orders

• Rapid water rise near homes or evacuation routes

FLOOD EMERGENCY KIT — HOUSEHOLD ESSENTIALS

• Waterproof document storage for ID, insurance, and medical records

• Flashlight, battery-powered or hand-crank radio, and spare batteries

• Non-perishable food and clean drinking water for at least 72 hours

• Waterproof footwear and protective gloves

• First aid kit and required medications

• Portable phone charger or solar power bank

• Spare clothing sealed in waterproof bags

Temporary flood-mitigation items may be appropriate only if used early and according to local authority guidance.

This page does not provide instructions for installing flood barriers or modifying structures.

EVACUATE OR SHELTER IN PLACE?

Evacuate Immediately If:

• Authorities issue an evacuation order

• Floodwater is rising near your home or evacuation route

• You live in a basement suite or below-grade residence

• Roads or access routes are becoming unsafe

Shelter in Place Only If:

• You are outside the flood zone and on higher ground

• You have sufficient food, water, and power supplies

• Emergency authorities advise that sheltering is safe

If evacuation is ordered, do not shelter in place.

Flood impacts may last from hours to weeks depending on geography and infrastructure.

Plan for at least 3–7 days of disruption.

FLOOD SAFETY RULES FOR FAMILIES

• Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwater

• Turn around — do not attempt to cross flooded roads

• Keep emergency alerts and radios accessible

• Store critical items on upper floors or in waterproof containers

• Identify a higher-ground meeting location and evacuation routes in advance

WHAT NOT TO DO

• Do not ignore evacuation or safety orders

• Do not assume clear or shallow water is safe

• Do not enter flooded buildings until authorities confirm it is safe

• Do not attempt rescues without training and equipment

• Never escape flooding by going into the Attic! The Attic trap is extrememly dangerous so always make sure you have an exit when going to higher ground.

GOVERNMENT FLOOD PREPAREDNESS RESOURCES

Canada

Public Safety Canada — Flood preparedness

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/policing/emergencies/preparedness/get-prepared.html

Environment and Climate Change Canada — Weather alerts

https://weather.gc.ca/alerts/index_e.html

PreparedBC — Flood and evacuation guidance

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc

Alert Ready — National emergency alert system

https://www.alertready.ca/

United States

Ready.gov — Floods

https://www.ready.gov/floods

FEMA Flood Map Service Center

https://msc.fema.gov/

Last Reviewed

January 2026

Sources: Public Safety Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, FEMA