Be Prepared

Before a Flood

  • Buy flood insurance. Visit the National Flood Insurance Program website or contact your agent.
  • Have an emergency plan for home, work, and school.
  • Know several safe routes to high ground from your home, school or business.
  • Establish meeting places in case family members are separated.
  • Designate an out-of-state emergency contact to call if local phone lines are down.
  • Assemble an emergency kit.
  • Coastal residents need to secure loose items so waves and storm surges do not pick up the items, potentially injuring someone or damaging property.
  • For more information, visit the Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management (DEM) website.

During a Flood

  • Do not walk or drive through flooded areas. Follow recommended evacuation routes.
  • Monitor local news for emergency updates. Be prepared to evacuate. If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
  • If your car stalls in a flooded area, abandon it and walk to safety in the direction you came from.
  • If you are unable to safely leave a building due to rising water, first call 911. Then, move to a higher floor or the roof. Take warm, waterproof clothing, a flashlight, a cell phone and a battery or solar powered radio.
  • If possible, turn off all utilities, including power and gas. Do not touch any electrical equipment unless it is completely in a dry area.

After a Flood

  • Only go home when authorities say it is safe.
  • Before re-entering your home, be cautious of potential structural damage, gas leaks, electrical shorts, and live wires.
  • Have a professional check your heating, electrical panel, outlets, and appliances for safety before you use them.
  • For safe clean-up of food, water supply and property contact the Snohomish County Health District at 425-339-5200.
  • Pump out flooded areas gradually to avoid structural damage.
  • Document your losses. Photograph damages and record repair costs. Contact your insurance agent for flood loss claims.
  • Before you begin repairs, get a permit. Contact 360-793-2231.