Family & Pets
Making a Family Emergency Plan
One page that answers: who checks in, where do we meet, and what do we grab?
2 February 2026 · 6 min read
Scenario
Flooding
Surface water, river or flash flooding affecting home or routes.
The risk
Floodwater rises fast, damages property, contaminates supplies and is a leading cause of weather-related deaths — most from vehicles driven into water.
☀ Before
- Know your local flood-risk zone and alert channels.
- Move documents, electronics and valuables above expected levels.
- Prepare sandbags or flood barriers for known entry points.
- Plan evacuation routes that avoid low-lying roads.
⚡ During
- Move to higher ground early; do not wait.
- Never walk or drive into moving water — 15 cm can unbalance you, 30 cm can float a car.
- Turn off electricity at the mains if safe to do so.
✓ After
- Avoid contaminated water; disinfect anything it touched.
- Photograph damage for insurance before clearing.
- Check structure and electrics before reconnecting.
Equipment that helps
- Waterproof document pouch
- Go-bags
- Sandbags/barriers
- Boots
- Battery radio
Mistakes to avoid
- Driving through floodwater
- Returning too early
- Touching flooded electrics
Sources & further reading
- National meteorological service flood warnings
- Local civil protection
Named sources are indicative; verify current official guidance for your area.
