Flooding
Key Concerns
Flooding can be extremely dangerous for older adults. Flooding poses serious dangers for older adults due to challenges with evacuation, hidden hazards, and exposure to contaminated water. Floodwaters can carry bacteria, sewage, and chemicals, increasing the risk of infection and illness. Slippery surfaces and submerged objects raise the risk of falls or drowning, especially for those with limited mobility. Power outages and water damage can also disrupt access to essential medical equipment and safe shelter.
How to Limit & Avoid Risks Associated with Flooding
- Stay informed with alerts by signing up for local emergency notifications, using weather apps, or a NOAA weather radio.
- Know your flood zone and be aware of whether your home is at high, moderate, or low flood risk.
- Keep an evacuation plan ready, with clear, simple steps and accessible transportation options for those with limited mobility.
- Prepare a waterproof emergency kit with medications, documents, flashlight, water, food, and extra clothing.
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwater—just six inches can knock a person down, and one foot can sweep away a vehicle.
- Install sump pumps, water alarms, and backflow valves to help prevent water damage in flood-prone homes.
- Elevate electrical appliances and critical medical equipment above ground level if flooding is likely.
- Move valuables and essentials to higher floors or shelves during flood warnings.
- Unplug appliances if safe to do so, and avoid touching outlets or wires in wet areas to prevent electric shock.
- Dry out your home quickly after flooding to reduce the risk of mold and bacterial growth.
- Avoid contact with floodwater, which can contain sewage, chemicals, or sharp debris wear rubber boots and gloves if cleanup is necessary.
- Check in with neighbors, caregivers, or local emergency services if you need help evacuating or returning home safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 Why are floods especially dangerous for older adults?
Older adults may have reduced mobility, slower reaction times, or rely on medical devices and assistive equipment, making it harder to evacuate quickly or stay safe in rising water. Floods can also cut off electricity, access to care, and communication, putting seniors at higher risk of harm.
Q.2 Can I walk or drive through floodwater if it doesn’t seem deep?
No. Just six inches of water can knock you over, and one foot can carry away a car. Floodwaters also hide sharp objects, electrical hazards, and contaminants like sewage or chemicals.
Q.3 How can I prepare if I live in a flood-prone area?
Create an evacuation plan, pack a waterproof emergency kit, and move valuables and medications to higher shelves. Install flood alarms, sump pumps, and know the safest route to a shelter or higher ground.
Q.4 What should I avoid doing after a flood?
Avoid contact with standing floodwater, as it may contain harmful bacteria or chemicals. Don’t touch electrical devices or outlets until the area is completely dry and inspected. Watch out for slippery surfaces and mold growth.
Q.5 Who can I contact for help during a flood emergency?
Reach out to local emergency services, neighbors, or caregiver networks. Register with community emergency assistance programs for older adults, which can provide support during evacuation or recovery.
References & Helpful Articles
- https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PIH/documents/PHA-D3R_Guidebook.pdf
- https://www.cdc.gov/floods/safety/reentering-your-flooded-home-safety.html#:~:text=Dry%20out%20your%20home%20to%20prevent%20mold.&text=If%20you%20are%20operating%20equipment,equipment%20to%20remove%20standing%20water
- https://www.cdc.gov/floods/safety/floodwater-after-a-disaster-or-emergency-safety.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/floods/safety/index.html
- https://community.fema.gov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Flood
- https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-during