You have flood insurance and have done your best to prepare. Here’s what you can do once flooding has started to keep your family safe.

• Fill bathtubs, sinks and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated.
• Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest storm information.
• If local authorities instruct you to do so, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.
• If told to evacuate your home, do so immediately.
• If the waters start to rise inside your house before you have evacuated, retreat to the second floor, the attic, or if necessary, the roof.
• Floodwaters may carry raw sewage, chemical waste and other disease-spreading substances. If you've come in contact with floodwaters, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water.
• Avoid walking through floodwaters. As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
• Don't drive through a flooded area. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. A car can be carried away by just two feet of flood water.
• Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.
• Animals lose their homes in floods, too. Be aware that even domesticated animals may be confused and unpredictable in a flood situation.