What Should I Do If My Street Floods?

When your street floods, the most important step is to keep yourself and your family out of harm's way. Never walk or drive through floodwater, as it can be deeper or faster than it looks and may hide hazards like open manholes or downed power lines. If you are indoors, stay on upper floors if possible.

Keep an eye on local weather alerts and heed any evacuation orders from authorities. If you feel unwell or are injured, see a doctor promptly. Have a flashlight, batteries, and a charged phone ready in case power goes out. Your safety matters more than protecting belongings.

• Avoid walking through floodwater
• Do not drive through flooded streets
• Move to higher ground if needed
• Listen to local emergency alerts
• Keep emergency supplies handy

When floodwater goes down, inspect your home carefully before entering. Look for structural damage, such as cracks in walls or a sagging ceiling. Be cautious of slippery floors and hidden damage. If you smell gas or see sparks, leave immediately and contact emergency services.

Document any damage with photos and notes for your insurance records. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand what you need to report. Avoid touching floodwater or items it touched, as it may be contaminated.

If water has entered your home and soaked walls, floors, or personal belongings, it is wise to get professional help. The pros can assess the extent of damage and perform thorough drying and cleanup. This is especially important if the floodwater sat for more than a day or if you notice a musty smell.

For extensive flooding, consider services like flood damage cleanup and water damage inspection. These services can help identify hidden moisture and prevent long-term issues. If you live in Doral, keep local pro numbers handy for quick action after a flood event.