Flood water safety tips for Louisiana families

1. Avoid flooded areas and moving water

  • Never walk, swim, or drive through flood water. Even six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and a foot of water can sweep away most cars.

  • Streets and sidewalks under flood water may hide potholes, debris, or dangerous currents.

  • Avoid shortcuts through alleys or side streets that may be flooded.

2. Protect yourself from contaminated water

  • Flood water can contain raw sewage, chemicals, sharp debris, and harmful bacteria.

  • Avoid skin contact with flood water whenever possible.

  • If you must enter flood water, wear waterproof boots and gloves, and wash with clean, safe water immediately afterward.

  • Clean any wounds thoroughly and cover them to prevent infection.

3. Use only safe drinking water

  • Never drink or cook with flood water—it is unsafe.

  • Use bottled water, or boil water for at least one minute before drinking if instructed by authorities.

  • Follow boil water advisories from the City of New Orleans or your parish.

  • If your baby drinks formula, prepare it only with bottled or boiled water.

4. Electrical safety in flooded homes

  • If water enters your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker before it rises to outlet level.

  • Never touch electrical appliances, outlets, or cords while standing in water.

  • Only allow a licensed electrician to restore power after a flood.

5. Watch for displaced animals and insects

  • Floods can force snakes, rodents, fire ants, and other wildlife into homes and yards.

  • Do not approach animals in or near flood water—call animal control if needed.

  • Use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes, which may increase after flooding.

6. Stay informed with news and alerts

  • Monitor local news, radio, and official emergency alerts for updates.

  • Download the FEMA app or sign up for NOLA Ready alerts for road closures, boil water advisories, and evacuation guidance.

7. Relocate to safe shelter areas

  • If advised to evacuate, move to a shelter or stay with friends/family outside the flood zone.

  • Bring identification, important documents, and essential medications.

  • For families covered by Medicaid through their health plan, Nest Health can help connect you with care options during displacement.

8. Food safety during and after a flood

  • Discard any food that has touched flood water; even sealed packages may be contaminated.

  • Throw away perishable foods that have been without refrigeration for more than two hours.

  • Store food and water in sealed, waterproof containers.

9. Communicating your location to others

  • Once you are in a safe location, contact family or friends to let them know where you are.

  • If you relocate to a shelter, register with shelter staff so emergency responders can reach you if needed.

10. Accessing care and resources during floods

  • Keep Nest Health’s number handy: Call 866-222-NEST (6378) for care, advice, or support.

  • Our team can provide telehealth visits, connect you with local resources, and coordinate care for your entire family, even during emergencies.

  • If you have medical equipment that relies on electricity, plan for alternative power sources or relocation to a facility with backup generators.

Emergency contacts and resources

Keep these numbers and apps accessible:

  • Local emergency services: 911

  • Nest Health 24/7 Care Line: 866-222-NEST (6378)

  • Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

  • City of New Orleans 311 for non-emergency information

  • FEMA app for emergency alerts

  • NOLA Ready text alerts: text NOLAREADY to 77295

Remember: Flood water safety starts with prevention. Avoid contact whenever possible, use only safe drinking water, and follow local emergency guidance. For medical needs during a flood, Nest Health is here to support you and your family—covered by Medicaid at no additional cost to eligible families through their health plan.