Flood Emergency Kit: What to Pack Before You Evac

When a flood threatens your home, you may have only minutes to leave.

Therefore, every household needs an emergency evacuation kit ready in advance.

A well-packed kit keeps your family safe, healthy, and informed during a crisis.

Here’s how to build one — and what to pack inside.

---

Why a Flood Kit Matters

First, hurricanes bring two major perils — wind and flood.

Of these two, flooding often causes the most deadly and lasting damage.

For example, Hurricane Ian (2022) caused $8 to $18 billion in flood losses.

Likewise, Hurricane Milton (2024) left $4 to $6 billion in uninsured flood damage.

In both storms, many families had only hours to evacuate their homes.

Furthermore, floods knock out power, contaminate drinking water, and block roads for days.

Because of that, FEMA suggests at least 72 hours of supplies per person.

You can find more tips at FEMA’s flood insurance page.

---

The Basics: Food, Water, and Shelter

Start with the essentials your family needs to survive for several days.

 

• • One gallon of water per person, per day, for three days

• • Non-perishable food like granola bars, peanut butter, and canned goods

• • A manual can opener and basic eating utensils

• • A flashlight with extra batteries

• • A battery-powered or hand-crank radio

• • Blankets or sleeping bags for each person

• • A change of clothes and sturdy shoes

Additionally, store everything inside a waterproof container or sturdy backpack.

---

Health and Safety Items

Next, floodwater carries bacteria, sewage, and chemicals into homes and yards.

Therefore, health supplies become very important during an evacuation.

 

• • A first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers

• • Prescription medications, rotated every few months

• • Hand sanitizer, soap, and disinfecting wipes

• • N95 masks to protect against mold and dust

• • Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and basic toiletries

• • Pet food, leashes, and vaccination records

---

Important Documents

Also, pack the paperwork you will need after a disaster.

 

• • Copies of your flood and homeowners insurance policies

• • A photo ID for each family member

• • Birth certificates, Social Security cards, and passports

• • A list of emergency contacts and your insurance agent

• • Recent photos of your home and belongings

Finally, store all documents inside a waterproof bag or small fireproof folder.

---

Don’t Forget the Extras

Cash in small bills helps when ATMs and card readers fail.

In addition, phone chargers, a portable battery, duct tape, and a whistle all help.

---

Be Ready Before the Water Rises

At Cronin Insurance, we believe preparation matters as much as protection.

Together, the right kit and the right policy give your family the best chance.