Flood preparation

The weather can change fast

Know what to do to prepare for flooding by contacting your local council or emergency authority.

Tips to prepare

Before a flood

  • Find out the local flood history where you live, work or play
  • Make an emergency plan and practice it with your family
  • Identify an evacuation route and safe place in case of emergency
  • Ensure local emergency numbers are on your mobile phone
  • Gather an emergency kit together for your home. 

During a flood

  • Activate your emergency plan
  • Be prepared to leave your home if an evacuation order issued by emergency authorities
  • Keep in contact with family, friends and neighbours
  • Listen to the radio for emergency information and updates 
  • Secure any property that may float away or cause damage
  • Do not attempt to walk or drive through floodwater, there may be hidden hazards
  • Ensure any chemicals or poisons are safety stowed above floor level.

Evacuating your home

Emergency authorities will issue an evacuation order when you must vacate your home. 

  • Follow all instructions given to you by emergency authorities
  • It is important to keep listening to the radio for emergency information and updates. Take a portable radio with you
  • Turn off electricity and gas at the mains
  • Secure gas bottles
  • Take your pets
  • Gather important documents or irreplaceable valuables.

After a flood

Emergency authorities will let you know when it is safe to return to your home. 

  • Do not turn the electricity or gas on at the mains until the building is safe to enter
  • Use a torch to check for damage to windows, walls and the roof
  • Electrical appliances and systems should be checked by a qualified electrician if they have been in contact with floodwater
  • Throw away food that has been exposed to floodwater
  • Use bottled drinking water.

Useful information