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Juanita Bay Water ResponseWater Damage Help · Kirkland, WA

What to Do Before a Hurricane or Flood Hits Your Home

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Know Your Risk and Evacuation Routes

Start by understanding whether your home sits in a flood-prone area. Check local flood maps and learn the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means conditions are possible; a warning means flooding is imminent or happening.

Plan two evacuation routes from your neighborhood and share them with your household. Practice the routes so everyone knows them by heart. Keep a printed map in your car, since phone service can fail during severe weather.

Secure Your Home's Exterior

Walk around your property and bring in or tie down anything that could become a projectile in high winds. This includes patio furniture, grills, trash bins, and potted plants. Trim dead branches from trees near your home, as they can break off and damage roofs or windows.

Install storm shutters or board up large windows if a hurricane is forecast. Check that your roof shingles are intact and that gutters are clear of leaves and debris. A small crack in a window or a clogged gutter can turn a minor storm into a major water intrusion event.

  • Bring in or secure outdoor furniture and decor
  • Trim overhanging branches and remove dead limbs
  • Clear gutters and downspouts of debris
  • Install storm shutters or plywood over windows
  • Anchor fuel tanks and propane cylinders securely
  • Move vehicles to higher ground or a garage

Prepare an Emergency Kit

Assemble a kit that can sustain your household for at least 72 hours. Include one gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food, a manual can opener, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and any medicines you take regularly. Add a battery-powered radio to receive weather updates.

Store important documents in a waterproof container. This includes insurance policies, identification, property deeds, and medical records. Keep cash on hand because ATMs and card readers may not work during power outages. Check your kit every six months and replace expired items.

Protect Your Home's Interior

Move furniture, electronics, and sentimental items to the highest floor of your home. If you have a basement, relocate anything stored there to higher ground. Elevate appliances like washers, dryers, and water heaters on blocks if possible.

Install a sump pump with a battery backup if you have a basement. Check that your floor drains are clear and that your foundation has no cracks where water could seep in. For added protection, consider sandbags around doorways and low vents. A little effort now can save you from costly repairs later.

Know How to Shut off Utilities

Learn the location of your main gas valve, water shutoff valve, and electrical panel. In the event of flooding, shut off gas and electricity if instructed by authorities or if you smell gas. Never touch electrical equipment while standing in water.

If you shut off your gas, only a qualified professional should turn it back on. For water, closing the main valve can prevent contamination if pipes rupture. Write down the locations and keep the list with your emergency kit. Post the list near your panel for quick reference.

  • Locate the main gas valve and water shutoff
  • Learn how to turn off your electrical panel safely
  • Keep a wrench near the shutoff valves
  • Label each valve clearly for quick identification
  • Practice shutting off utilities during a drill
  • Store a list of utility locations in your kit

Water damage does not wait

Phones are answered 24/7 for Kirkland and nearby communities.

Call Now (425) 406-3256

Frequently asked questions

What should I do with my pets before a flood?

Bring pets indoors and keep them with you. Prepare a pet emergency kit with food, water, and a leash. If you evacuate, take pets with you, as shelters may not accept them. Microchip your pet and keep identification tags updated.

Should I turn off my electricity before a flood?

Yes, if flooding is likely and you can do so safely. Turn off the main breaker only if you are not standing in water. If you cannot reach the panel safely, leave the power on and evacuate. Never touch electrical equipment with wet hands.

How can I protect my important documents from water damage?

Store documents in a waterproof, fireproof safe or in sealed plastic bags. Make digital copies and keep them on a cloud service or a USB drive. Place the safe on a high shelf or upper floor. Keep a list of document locations with your emergency kit. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Call Now (425) 406-3256