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What Should You Shut off Before Evacuating During a Flood?

Last updated October 19, 2026

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The short answer

The Critical Shutoff: Main Electrical Power

Cutting power at the main breaker panel is the most important electrical safety step. This prevents short circuits, electrocution hazards, and potential fires if water contacts your home's wiring or outlets. Always approach the breaker box with extreme caution. If any water has reached the panel's level or you must stand in water to access it, do not attempt to turn it off and evacuate immediately.

Locate your main breaker, typically a large double switch at the top of the panel. Switch it firmly to the 'off' position. In humid climates and areas prone to severe weather, knowing your panel's location beforehand is crucial. Do not waste time shutting off individual circuits; the main breaker disconnects all power to the house, which is sufficient for a rapid evacuation.

Turning off the Main Water Supply

Shutting off the main water valve prevents additional clean water from entering your plumbing system and potentially flooding the home further. This is especially critical if a pipe bursts due to shifting ground or pressure changes during the flood event. The valve is usually found where the main water line enters your home, such as in a basement, crawlspace, or near the water meter.

The valve may be a gate valve, which you turn clockwise several times, or a ball valve, which you turn a quarter-turn. Ensure everyone in your household knows its location and how to operate it. If the valve is stiff, keep a wrench nearby for emergencies. Once the main valve is closed, you can briefly open a faucet on the lowest level to relieve pressure in the pipes.

Gas Appliances and Individual Valves

If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the area immediately and call the gas company from a safe location. Only if there is no smell of gas and you have time, you can shut off individual appliances like your water heater or furnace. Locate the small shutoff valve on the gas line leading to each appliance and turn it a quarter-turn so it is perpendicular to the pipe.

Do not attempt to shut off the main gas valve at the meter unless specifically instructed by emergency officials or the utility company. Turning the main gas off requires a special wrench and knowledge to relight all pilot lights safely later, which the pros or your utility provider must handle. Your focus should be on a swift and safe evacuation, not complex utility management.

Safety Precautions Before You Leave

Your personal safety outweighs all property considerations. If floodwaters are rising rapidly or you are ordered to evacuate, leave immediately without performing these shutoffs. Do not risk your life to save possessions. The most critical action is getting yourself and your family to higher ground or a designated shelter. Water damage can be addressed later by local water damage pros, but your safety cannot be compromised.

Prepare an evacuation kit in advance that includes a list of your utility shutoff locations and necessary tools. Keep this kit, along with important papers, in an easily accessible, waterproof container. Knowing your plan ahead of time can save precious minutes and reduce panic during an actual emergency.

  • Never touch electrical switches, panels, or outlets if you are wet or standing in water.
  • Wear rubber-soled shoes and use a dry wooden stick or a flashlight with a rubberized grip if you must touch a metal breaker box.
  • Use a flashlight, not a candle or open flame, especially if there is any chance of a gas leak.
  • If you have time, move important documents and small valuables to a higher floor.
  • Unplug major appliances if you can reach their cords without entering water.
  • Fill clean containers with drinking water before shutting off the main supply.

What to Expect When You Return Home

Do not re-enter your home until authorities declare it safe. When you return, assume all electrical systems are hazardous until inspected by a qualified electrician. Do not turn the main power back on if there is visible water damage to wiring, outlets, or the breaker panel itself. Standing water and soaked building materials can conduct electricity, creating a severe shock risk long after the water recedes.

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Frequently asked questions

What if I cannot reach my electrical panel to shut it off?

Your safety is paramount. If accessing the panel requires wading through water or poses any risk, do not attempt it. Evacuate immediately. Electrical hazards from floodwater are extremely dangerous. A qualified electrician must inspect the system before power is restored after the flood.

Should I shut off the electricity to my sump pump?

No, you should not shut off a sump pump before evacuating if it is actively operating. The pump is your primary defense against basement flooding. Leave it running on its circuit. The main electrical shutoff is for the overall house safety once you are leaving for an extended period.

How do I find my main water shutoff valve?

Look where the main water pipe enters your home, often in the basement, crawlspace, or garage, or near the water meter outside. It is typically a brass valve on a large pipe. Familiarize yourself with its location and operation during calm weather, not during an emergency.

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