Top items to have on hand if you're expecting a flood

With extreme weather coming, it's vital to know how to prepare

A barrage of storms mean 70 million people are facing severe weather this week. The east coast is bracing for a major storm, and with winter just barely beginning, there could be many more weeks of challenging ahead. Unfortunately, with temperatures gradually climbing around the world, storms are going to intensify and floods are going to become more common. It's vital to learn how to prepare, no matter where you live.

How to prepare for a flood

A flood can create many hazards: risk of fire, risk of electrocution, risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and more. Because of this, it's best to prepare for every eventuality. Since this task is so large that it may be overwhelming, the best strategy is to start now and always be in a prepared state. Don't wait for a flood watch or a flood warning to begin checking items off this list:

• Learn how to turn off the electricity to your home.
• Learn how to turn off the gas to your home.
• Learn how to turn off the water supply to your home.
• Anchor any fuel tanks to prevent them from being swept away.
• Listen to local NOAA weather reports and alerts.
• Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace if needed.
• Purchase a fire extinguisher if you don't already own one.
• Have a backup option if your main sump pump fails.
• Install backflow valves in drains and sewer connections.
• Bring outside furniture and other items indoors.
• Have at least 3 gallons of clean drinking water for each individual living under your roof.
• Put important papers, such as immunization records and financial documents, in a waterproof container.
• Create an emergency evacuation plan with several escape routes.
• Have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.
• Have powered-up backup battery packs to keep your devices running.
• Stock up on insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
• Keep essential medications stored where they won't get wet or damaged.

Top 10 items to have when preparing for a flood

Eton American Red Cross AM/FM NOAA Weather Alert Radio

This rechargeable hand-crank weather radio has AM/FM radio, all seven NOAA weather band stations and the Alert system to make sure you're always aware of weather alerts in your area. It can also power your smartphone in emergencies. Sold by Home Depot and Amazon

First Alert SA320CN Dual-Sensor Smoke and Fire Alarm

This smoke alarm detects both fast-burn and smoldering fires. It operates on AA batteries, so no wiring is required for installation. The test button lets you check to see if the unit is in operating order. Sold by Amazon and Target

First Alert CO615 Dual-Power Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector

First Alert's carbon monoxide detector works with any standard outlet but also features a battery backup so you can continue monitoring even if there's a power failure. The peak-level display shows the highest level of carbon monoxide detected. Sold by Amazon and Best Buy

Basement Watchdog Emergency Back-Up Sump Pump

The most important time to have your sump pump running is when you lose power. This heavy-duty model kicks on during power outages, when the main pump fails or when water flow exceeds the capacity of the main pump. Sold by Amazon and Home Depot

Amerex B402 Dry Chemical Class A B C Fire Extinguisher

Even if you never have a flood, it's essential for your home to have a working fire extinguisher easily accessible at all times. This model is suitable for combustibles, grease and electrical fires. Sold by Amazon

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

One of the most important resources to have in any emergency is clean drinking water. The LifeStraw removes up to 99.99% of contaminants, such as bacteria, parasites and microplastics to provide safe drinking water in less-than-ideal situations.  Sold by Amazon, Dick's Sporting Goods and Target

MoKo Money and Document Organizer

This document folder can withstand temperatures up to 1,800 degrees. It's also water-resistant and large enough to hold legal documents. The double closure, hook-and-loop and zipper, ensures a secure seal. Sold by Amazon

Rapid Care First Aid Kit

Not just a first aid kit, the clever case allows this to be mounted to a wall to function like a small cabinet. It comes with bandages, scissors, tape, a cold compress, ibuprofen, a first aid book and more. Sold by Amazon

Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 Portable Power Bank/Charger

In an emergency, it's important to keep your devices powered up so you have a way to communicate. This slim, lightweight charger has VoltageBoost technology that lets it charge at up to 12 watts. For low-power devices, it's best to use the trickle charge feature. Sold by Amazon

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Allen Foster writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.