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.