Emergency? Call 112 now. Dispatchers will guide you through these steps on the phone.
Floods are the most common natural disaster worldwide. Most flood deaths happen in vehicles — just 30 cm (1 ft) of moving water can float a car.
Before
- Check whether your home is in a flood zone and sign up for local warnings.
- Move valuables and electrical items upstairs; keep sandbags or flood barriers if you're at risk.
- Review insurance — standard home policies often exclude flood.
During
- Evacuate when told — early, while routes are open.
- Never walk, swim or drive through floodwater. It may be deeper, faster and more contaminated than it looks, and can hide open drains and debris.
- If trapped, go to the highest level of the building (not a closed attic) and signal for help.
- Switch off power at the mains if safe to do so.
After
- Return only when authorities say it's safe.
- Wear gloves and boots; floodwater carries sewage and chemicals.
- Photograph damage for insurance before cleaning; throw away food that touched floodwater.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026 against current public guidance from national resuscitation councils and Red Cross / Red Crescent first-aid manuals. General education only — not a substitute for certified training or professional medical advice. Medical disclaimer · Suggest a correction