Frequently Asked Questions
Make sure everyone in your family knows these safety measures:
- Don't drive or walk through floodwater.
- Stay away from drains, culverts, and creek beds.
- Cooperate with the emergency services, particularly regarding road closures and evacuations.
Make an emergency kit and make sure everyone in your family knows where it is.
Follow this link to the SES website for information on what your emergency kit should contain.
When a flood is approaching
- Listen to your local radio station for warnings and updates.
- Stack your furniture and other possessions as high as possible. Place electrical goods on top.
- Move stock and equipment to high ground.
- Move garbage containers, chemicals, and poisons beyond the reach of water.
- Secure objects that are likely to float and cause damage.
- Check your car and keep it full of fuel.
If you decide to (or must) evacuate
- Empty refrigerators and freezers, leave the doors open, and turn off the power.
- Collect your valuables, mementos, and medication and take them with you.
- Tell the Police or the SES when you are safe.
- Don't walk or drive through flood water.
During and after the flood
- Keep listening to your local radio station.
- Avoid using gas or electrical appliances that have been in flood water.
- Drink only bottled or boiled water until water supplies have been declared safe.
- Don't eat food that has been in flood water.
- Keep contact with your neighbours in case you or they need help.
Help will be available at evacuation centres established by the Department of Community Services (DoCS).
They will help with:
- Temporary accommodation
- Financial assistance
- Personal support
- Refreshments and meals
- Clothing and personal items
- Contacting family and friends.
Recovery Centres
Will be staffed by representatives from government departments and community agencies who will provide a range of assistance to help you return to normal living.If you have pets
Please read about preparing your pets for evacuation.For more information, browse the list of frequently asked questions.