Floods are some of the most common—and most destructive—natural disasters. In fact, according to the Department of Homeland Security, ninety percent of natural disasters within the United States involve flooding. This means that floods result in more damage and fatalities than any other type of natural disaster. Whether they’re caused by heavy rainfall, overflowing rivers, or coastal surges, the impact of a flood can be severe. Being prepared for an upcoming flood is critical, and having the right essentials on hand can not only make enduring a flood more manageable but can also be crucial for your family’s safety. With flood warnings currently in place across the Northeast, there’s no better time to ensure that your home is equipped with everything you need in case of an emergency. Here are 10 home essentials to have on hand in the event of a flood.
I’ve seen firsthand how quickly a flood can turn life upside down—neighbors scrambling to save belongings, power outages lasting days. It’s not just about staying dry; it’s about staying safe and keeping your family secure. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) notes that even two feet of moving water can sweep a car away, so preparation is everything. Stocking up on these essentials isn’t just practical—it’s a lifeline when the waters rise.
1. Water Testing Kit
Water sources can become contaminated with bacteria, chemicals, and sewage during a flood. This poses a significant health risk, especially if the water is used for drinking, cooking, or cleaning. A water testing kit becomes indispensable in such scenarios—it allows you to quickly and accurately assess the safety of your water supply. By detecting harmful contaminants, a water testing kit helps ensure that the water you use is free from dangerous pollutants, safeguarding your health and well-being in the aftermath of a flood. Get the SJ Wave 16 in 1 Drinking Water Test Kit at Amazon for $21.99.
I can’t stress enough how vital clean water is during a flood. A friend once assumed their well water was safe post-flood, only to discover it was laced with E. coli—yikes. Testing kits like the SJ Wave check for 16 different contaminants, including lead and nitrates, which can spike after heavy flooding. The CDC reports that waterborne diseases cause thousands of illnesses annually in flood-affected areas. To use a kit effectively, follow the instructions to the letter and test multiple sources if you can. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind, and at under $22, it’s way cheaper than a hospital visit.
2. Bottled Water
If you determine that your tap water is no longer drinkable, it’s essential to have another source of potable water on hand. The Red Cross recommends keeping a three-day supply of bottled water in your home for emergencies, equating to one gallon per person per day. It’s also prudent to keep something on hand to purify water if necessary, like a portable water filter or water purification tablets. Get the Crystal Geyser Alpine Spring Water at Amazon for $27.39.
Stocking up on bottled water sounds simple, but it’s easy to underestimate how much you’ll need. For a family of four, that’s 12 gallons for three days—more if you’ve got pets. I keep a stash in my garage, rotated every six months to stay fresh. If you’re tight on space, consider stacking them under a bed. Also, don’t sleep on purification tablets; they’re a lightweight backup if your bottled supply runs low. The EPA says improper storage can lead to plastic leaching, so keep bottles in a cool, dark place to maintain quality.
3. Mobile Power Bank
Floods often go hand in hand with power outages, making it difficult to keep your mobile devices powered up. A means of communication in case of an emergency is essential, which is why you should always keep a mobile power bank charged and ready to go. It allows you to keep a phone operational for updates on floods, weather forecasts, and rescue efforts. A charged mobile device can be a lifeline during emergencies, providing access to digital emergency guides, first aid information, and GPS navigation in case of evacuation. This one from Anker features a powerful 24,000mAh battery and allows you to charge three devices at once. Get the Anker Power Bank at Amazon for $115.88.
A power bank is a game-changer when the grid goes down. I learned this the hard way during a storm when my phone died, cutting me off from weather alerts. The Anker model’s 24,000mAh capacity can charge a smartphone multiple times, which is critical for staying connected. Experts suggest keeping it at least 50% charged at all times and storing it in a waterproof bag for extra protection. At $115, it’s a bit of a splurge, but compared to being stranded without communication, it’s worth every penny. Pro tip: test it monthly to ensure it’s holding a charge.
4. First Aid Kit
If a flood causes you and your family to shelter in place, it may make accessing health care services difficult or impossible. Keeping a well-stocked first aid kit in the house is always prudent, but it becomes essential during a natural disaster. This 298-piece kit includes bandages of varying sizes, gloves, a thermometer, alcohol wipes, gauze, tweezers, sterile pads, and more. Get the First Aid Only First Aid Kit at Amazon for $20.58.
A good first aid kit is like a security blanket during a flood. I’ve used mine for everything from minor cuts to checking fevers when clinics were unreachable. The 298-piece kit mentioned covers the basics, but I’d add a few extra items like burn ointment and an instant cold pack—flood-related injuries can vary. The American Red Cross suggests checking your kit yearly to replace expired items. For $20.58, it’s a no-brainer to have one in your home and car. Just make sure everyone in the family knows where it’s stored.
5. Tactical Flashlight
While you likely already have a flashlight or two in your home, investing in a high-quality, tactical model can make a major difference during an emergency. Tactical flashlights like this one are built to be durable enough to withstand a variety of conditions, and the IPX7 waterproof rating means that this flashlight will continue to work even after being submerged in up to three feet of water for 30 minutes. When operated on the lowest setting, this model can be used for up to 18 hours on a single charge. Get the Streamlight 88040 ProTac HL 750-Lumen Professional Tactical Flashlight at Amazon for $77.87.
A tactical flashlight isn’t just a light—it’s a tool you can count on. I dropped my Streamlight in a puddle during a power outage, and it kept shining like nothing happened. That IPX7 rating is a big deal; it means the flashlight can handle being underwater, which is common in floods. The 750-lumen brightness is enough to light up a room or signal for help. Experts recommend keeping extra batteries or a charger handy, as 18 hours can go fast in a prolonged outage. At $77, it’s a solid investment for safety.
6. Emergency Radio
An emergency radio provides real-time news and weather updates during floods, giving users access to evacuation orders and emergency instructions. This model features Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) technology, which provides regionally-specific messages. Since it’s battery-powered, be sure to have extra batteries on hand in case of an extended emergency scenario. Get the Midland Consumer Radio WR-120B at Amazon for $34.88.
An emergency radio can be a literal lifesaver when cell towers are down. I’ve relied on mine during storms to get updates straight from NOAA. The SAME technology in the Midland radio is awesome—it filters alerts to your area, so you’re not sifting through irrelevant warnings. FEMA advises keeping at least two sets of extra batteries in a waterproof container. For $34.88, it’s an affordable way to stay informed. Just test it every few months to make sure it’s working properly.
7. Life Vests
In situations involving extreme flooding, you may be forced to evacuate your home by boat. In those cases, a life vest or personal flotation device is crucial, particularly for children and those lacking strong swimming skills. Since floodwaters are unpredictable, even competent swimmers would benefit from wearing a lifejacket during an evacuation. It’s best to keep one lifejacket per person in your home when floods are predicted in your area. Get the O’Neill Men’s Superlite USCG Life Vest at Amazon for $56.55.
Life vests are non-negotiable if you live in a flood-prone area. I’ve seen floodwaters turn calm streets into raging rivers in hours—strong swimmers included, no one’s safe without a vest. The O’Neill Superlite is Coast Guard-approved, which means it’s built for real emergencies. Make sure to check the fit for each family member; a loose vest is almost as bad as none. At $56.55 each, it’s a steep cost for a family, but you can’t put a price on safety. Store them somewhere easily accessible, like near your front door.
8. Dry Bags
It’s crucial to protect important documents, medications, and electronics during a flood, and waterproof bags like these will ensure they stay dry. These bags are lightweight and come in a pack of three, each of which measures 10.2 by 13.8 inches. If you leave air in the bags, they’ll even float in the water, ensuring you don’t lose the items you need most. Get the YUMQUA Waterproof Dry Bags at Amazon for $12.98.
Dry bags are a cheap but genius way to protect your essentials. I’ve used them to keep my phone and passport safe during a sudden downpour, and they didn’t let me down. The YUMQUA bags are great because they float, which saved my friend’s meds during a kayak evacuation. For $12.98 for three, they’re a steal. Pro tip: practice sealing them tightly before an emergency—user error can lead to leaks. Also, consider labeling each bag for quick access to critical items like IDs or prescriptions.
9. Rubber Boots
Owning a pair of durable rubber boots is a must when navigating flood water since they protect from debris and exposure to harmful bacteria in the water. This model offers high coverage, measuring 15 inches from the floor. Their sturdy, anti-skid soles offer better grip on slippery surfaces, and the seamless, molded construction ensures they’re completely waterproof. Get the Marshalltown Adult Unisex Black Waterproof Work Boots at Lowe’s for $27.98.
Rubber boots are a must-have for wading through floodwater. I’ve stepped on sharp debris in shallow water before—trust me, you don’t want an infection from contaminated water. The Marshalltown boots’ 15-inch height is perfect for deeper puddles, and the anti-skid soles give you confidence on slick surfaces. At $27.98, they’re affordable enough to get a pair for everyone. The CDC warns that floodwater can carry pathogens like tetanus, so clean and dry the boots thoroughly after use to avoid contamination.
10. Sand Bags
Sandbags are a fundamental defense tool during floods, serving as a barrier to divert or block floodwaters from entering your home. When strategically placed around doorways, garages, and basements, sandbags can significantly mitigate the impact of rising waters. These sandbags each have a 50-pound capacity but come empty, meaning sand must be purchased or acquired separately. Get the DuraSack 50-lb Capacity Woven Polypropylene Sand-Bag at Lowe’s for $34.99.
Sandbags can make or break your home’s defense against flooding. I helped a neighbor stack them around their garage last year, and it saved their basement from inches of water. The DuraSack bags are sturdy, but filling them is labor-intensive—plan for about 15-20 minutes per bag. Local fire stations or public works often provide free sand during flood warnings, so check with your town to save on costs. The Army Corps of Engineers says proper stacking (like a brick wall) can block water up to two feet high, so take time to place them right.
