Emergency Checklists
Preparation saves property and lives. Use these checklists before, during, and after water emergencies.
When Water Damage Strikes
Immediate actions in the first 60 minutes
- Ensure personal safety — do not enter standing water near electrical outlets or appliances
- Shut off the water supply at the main valve if the source is plumbing-related
- Turn off electricity to affected areas at the breaker panel (only if safe to access)
- Call Flood Doctor for emergency water extraction and mitigation
- Contact your insurance company to start a claim
- Take photos and video of all damage before touching anything
- Move valuable items and furniture away from standing water if safe
- Open windows and doors for ventilation if weather permits
- Place aluminum foil under furniture legs to prevent staining on wet carpet
- Do NOT use a household vacuum to remove water — use towels and mops only
Before the Storm
Preparation checklist for severe weather
- Clear gutters and downspouts of debris to ensure proper drainage
- Check sump pump operation — pour water in the pit to test it
- Install or test battery backup for sump pump
- Inspect and seal any foundation cracks with hydraulic cement
- Move valuables and important documents to upper floors or waterproof containers
- Know the location of your main water shut-off valve
- Know the location of your electrical panel
- Photograph your home and belongings for pre-loss documentation
- Review your insurance policy — confirm water damage and flood coverage
- Stock emergency supplies: flashlights, batteries, first aid kit, bottled water
- Program emergency numbers into your phone, including Flood Doctor
Post-Flood Safety
What to do after flooding subsides
- Do not re-enter your home until authorities confirm it is safe
- Wear protective gear: rubber boots, gloves, and an N95 mask
- Check for structural damage — sagging ceilings, warped walls, shifted foundations
- Do not turn on electricity until an electrician inspects the system
- Do not use tap water until it has been declared safe by local authorities
- Document all damage with photos and video for your insurance claim
- Remove standing water as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth
- Discard food, medicine, and cosmetics that contacted floodwater
- Open windows and use fans to begin drying (only after standing water is removed)
- Contact Flood Doctor for professional drying, dehumidification, and mold prevention
- Watch for signs of mold in the days and weeks following — musty odors, discoloration, respiratory symptoms
Emergency Kit Essentials
Keep these items ready and accessible
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid kit with essential medications
- Bottled water — one gallon per person per day for at least three days
- Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Phone charger (portable battery pack)
- Important documents in a waterproof container (insurance policies, IDs, medical records)
- Cash in small bills (ATMs may be down)
- N95 masks and rubber gloves
- Garbage bags and plastic sheeting
- Duct tape and basic tools (wrench, pliers, screwdriver)
- Whistle to signal for help
Water emergency? We respond in 60 minutes.
Save these checklists, then call Flood Doctor when you need immediate help. Available 24/7.