If you live in an area subject to floods, be ready to raise refrigerators or freezers by putting cement blocks under their corners. If you keep canned goods and other foods in a basement or low cabinets, move them to a higher location. Flood waters may carry silt, raw sewage, oil or chemical waste. These items are safe if you sanitize the containers. Mark contents on can or jar lid with indelible ink.
Paper can harbor dangerous bacteria.
Then wash jars and cans in a strong detergent solution with a scrub brush. Finally, immerse containers for 15 minutes in a solution of two teaspoons of chlorine bleach per quart of room temperature water. Air dry before opening. Dishes and glassware are safe if they are sanitized the same way. Metal pans and utensils can be disinfected by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.