Flood Preparedness

Before a Flood

Know if you are in a flood prone area and what you can do to prepare:

Call (253) 798-2725 or request a free map showing the flood risk on your property. Please include your parcel number in the request. [Parcel numbers are available by visiting the Parcel & Property Information page, clicking "About My Property", and entering your street address.]
You can also call the phone number above to learn how you can build safely or improve your home in preparation for the next flood.
Buy flood insurance. Visit floodsmart.gov or contact your agent.
Have an emergency plan for home, work and school.
Know several safe routes to high ground from your home, school or business.
Establish meeting places in case family members are separated.
Designate an out-of-state emergency contact to call if local phone lines are down.
Assemble an emergency kit. Learn more about the supplies and tools you should prepare.
Coastal residents need to secure loose items so waves and storm surges do not pick up the items, potentially injuring someone or damaging property.
Learn more about how you can prepare for an emergency.

Do not walk or drive through flooded areas. Follow recommended evacuation routes.
Monitor local news for emergency updates. Be prepared to evacuate. If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
If your car stalls in a flooded area, abandon it and walk to safety in the direction you came from.
If you are unable to safely leave a building due to rising water, first call 911. Then, move to a higher floor or the roof. Take warm, waterproof clothing, a flashlight, a cell phone and a battery or solar powered radio.
If possible, turn off all utilities, including power and gas. Do not touch any electrical equipment unless it is completely in a dry area.

Only go home when authorities say it is safe.
Before re-entering your home, be cautious of potential structural damage, gas leaks, electrical shorts and live wires.
Have a professional check your heating, electrical panel, outlets and appliances for safety before you use them.
For safe clean-up of food, water supply and property contact the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department at (253) 798-6470.
Pump out flooded areas gradually to avoid structural damage.
Document your losses. Photograph damages and record repair costs. Contact your insurance agent for flood loss claims.
Before you begin repairs, get a permit. Contact Planning and Land Services at (253) 798-3739.