What Should Be in a Flood Emergency Kit for Homeowners?
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
Essential Supplies for Safety and Survival
Your kit must prioritize life safety for your household. A three-day supply of water, about one gallon per person per day, is a good starting point. Pack non-perishable food that does not require cooking, like energy bars and canned goods. Remember to include a manual can opener. If anyone in your home requires regular medicine, plan for how to access it during an emergency.
Lighting and communication are vital when power fails. Include battery-powered or hand-crank flashlights and a NOAA weather radio. Pack extra batteries for all your devices. A whistle can signal for help, and a multi-tool or wrench can be useful for turning off utilities. These tools help you manage immediate dangers and stay informed.
- Water (one gallon per person, per day, for three days)
- Non-perishable food (three-day supply)
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and flashlight
- First-aid kit
- Multi-tool or adjustable wrench for utility shutoffs
- Whistle to signal for help
Important Documents and Personal Items
Protecting your vital paperwork saves significant stress after a flood. Place copies of insurance policies, identification, and property records in a waterproof bag or container. Include bank account details and a list of important phone numbers, including your insurer. If you need to find your water shutoff valve, keep a note about its location with these papers.
Personal comfort and sanitation items are easily overlooked. Pack a change of clothes and sturdy shoes for each person. Include personal hygiene supplies, moist towelettes, and garbage bags with plastic ties for sanitation. Don't forget items for infants, like formula and diapers, or for pets, such as food and a leash. These supplies help maintain health and dignity in difficult conditions.
Special Considerations for Your Home
Your kit should also contain tools to protect your property from further damage. Heavy-duty plastic sheeting and duct tape can help seal broken windows or contain leaks. A small supply of absorbent materials, like old towels, can manage minor indoor flooding. Keep a sump pump and extension cords handy if your basement is prone to flooding, but only use electrical items if it is safe to do so.
Know how to safely shut off your home's utilities. Locate your main water valve, gas shutoff, and electrical panel now. Place the proper wrench or tool in your kit to turn them off. If flooding is imminent and you evacuate, shutting these off can prevent catastrophic water damage, electrical hazards, or gas leaks. Never attempt to turn off utilities if you must stand in water.
When a Flood Strikes Your Property
After ensuring your family's immediate safety, focus on preventing further damage. Move valuables to higher ground and take photos of any damage for your records. Do not enter flooded areas if the electricity is still on, due to electrocution risk. You can contact qualified professionals for the complex task of water extraction and drying to prevent mold and structural issues.
Contact your insurance company promptly to start the claims process. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Document all damage with photos and keep receipts for any temporary repairs or supplies you buy. While you may be able to handle minor cleanup, extensive water intrusion requires professional equipment and expertise to dry your home thoroughly and safely.
Maintaining and Storing Your Kit
An emergency kit is useless if its contents are expired or missing. Check your kit every six months, such as when you change your clocks. Replace expired food and water. Test flashlights and radios to ensure they work. Update your document copies and contact lists if any information changes. This regular maintenance ensures your kit is ready when you need it most.
Store your kit in a designated, easy-to-reach place that everyone in the household knows. A closet near an exit or in your garage are common choices. Use durable, waterproof containers to protect the contents from humidity and potential water exposure. Consider having a smaller, portable version in your vehicle. In a humid continental climate with cold winters and hot humid summers, temperature extremes can degrade supplies, so indoor storage is best.
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Call Now (347) 983-9353Frequently asked questions
How much water should I store per person?
Plan for at least one gallon of water per person per day. A three-day supply is a common minimum for emergency preparedness. This water is for drinking and sanitation. Store it in sealed, unbreakable containers and replace it every six months to ensure it stays fresh and safe.
Should I include tools in my flood kit?
Yes, include basic tools. A multi-tool, waterproof tape, and an adjustable wrench are essential. The wrench is for shutting off your main water valve or gas line to prevent further damage. These tools help you perform critical, immediate tasks to protect your property from immediate threats.
What should I do with my kit after a flood?
After using your kit, replenish all consumed or expired items immediately. Review what was most useful and consider adding those items. Maintain the kit so it is ready for the next emergency. Properly dried and cleaned containers can be reused for your refreshed supplies.
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