Here's What To Do If Your House Is Flooding

As the community continues to feel the impact of Hurricane Ida, which made landfall in Louisiana on Sunday (August 29), a concern of many is the potential flooding that could arise from the dangerous Category 4 storm.

The Caller Times has compiled a list of ways to keep yourself safe in the event that water begins flooding your home. If you're trapped inside your home when floodwaters start to rise, there are some steps you can take to make the dangerous situation safer. The University of Texas Health Science Center advises the following:

• Put on rubber-soled shoes and do not go barefoot inside your home.
• If you have a garage, and if possible, move your car inside.
• Remove flammable items and gasoline cans from the garage or place them in the rafters and off the ground.
• Place important items, such as documents, photos, and computers, high off the ground.
• Turn off electricity at the breaker in case it approaches sockets.
• Similarly, unplug all electric cords from wall sockets before water can rise to their level.
• Remove lower drawers from dressers as they can swell shut if they get wet.
• For one story homes, go to the attic and check for a roof exit, bringing any necessary tools needed to create an opening.
• Exterior doors should remain closed to keep out any animals or insects fleeing rising waters.
• Keep battery-operated communication devices on for updates regarding weather and possible evacuation boats.
• Do not drink tap water until you are advised it is safe to do so and that there aren't any containments in the water.
• Toilets won't flush if your house is flooding, so have a designated "chamber pot" on hand.

If you are in need of emergency services, check here for a list of each parish's emergency management center and the number to contact.