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Before, During & After a Flood
Before the Flood...
Organise an
Emergency Survival Items
Keep important documents in a sturdy watertight container
Take out insurance against flood damage and keep it up to date
Find out how high the last worst flood was in your area
Store all chemicals as high as possible in sealed containers
Identify the nearest "high ground", the attic or nearby two-storey building
Identify irreplaceable items worth saving and safe places to put them
Ensure all household members know how to turn off power, gas and water.
During the Flood...
When the sirens sound, tune to a local radio station and keep listening.
Alert your neighbours and see if they have access to public information.
Assist anyone with special needs or disabilities.
Do not evacuate the area unless told to by the emergency services.
Follow any instructions given by the relevant authorities.
Move valuables, clothing, and food into high cupboards or the roof.
Floodwaters will be contaminated and dangerous and best avoided.
Do not attempt to walk in floodwaters that are above knee height.
Do not attempt to drive in floodwaters deeper than 300-mm (1 foot).
If you have to enter floodwaters, take someone with you if possible.
Keep your pets inside or in the roof if flood waters reach your home.
Do not use your telephone except for emergency calls.
Be aware that electricity may fail at any stage - do not use lifts.
Turn off electricity, gas and water before flood waters reach your home. (if you turn off your gas the gas company needs to turn it back on)
Prepare to seek refuge upstairs or in the roof when advised by radio / TV.
Take a crowbar or axe for breaking out onto the roof if necessary.
Take your
Emergency Survival Items
with you to "higher ground".
Continue to monitor the situation via a transistor radio.
After the Flood...
Take photographs and notes on the damage to your home and contents.
Do not turn on power, gas and water until checked by the relevant authority.
Note that Wet electrical connections can cause fire.
Do not throw anything out until you contact your insurance company.
Be aware that mud and debris will be contaminated.
Always wear protective clothing when cleaning up after flood waters.
Do not eat produce from a garden which has been flooded as it maybe contaminated.