Flood Ready: Your Essential Guide to Staying Safe in Australia
Flooding is one of the most destructive natural disasters in Australia, capable of disrupting lives, damaging properties, and endangering communities. Whether you live in a flood-prone area or not, preparation is key to protecting your family and property when the waters rise. This guide will help you understand how to prepare for floods, what to do during an event, and how to stay safe afterward.
What Is a Flood?
A flood occurs when water escapes from its normal confines—such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs—and inundates normally dry land. Floods can happen anywhere in Australia and may result from heavy rainfall, dam releases, or storm surges. Flash floods, in particular, can occur with little warning and rise rapidly.
Why Prepare for Floods?
Floods are unpredictable and can strike at any time of year. Being prepared can save lives, reduce stress, and minimize damage to your property. According to the Queensland Government’s StreetSmarts initiative, driving into floodwaters is the leading cause of flood-related deaths—many involving locals familiar with the area6. This underscores the importance of planning ahead.
Step 1: Know Your Risk
Understanding your local flood risk is essential. Start by checking flood maps and historical data through your local council or resources like the National Flood Information Database. Ask these key questions:
Is my home located in a flood-prone area?
What is the nearest evacuation center?
At what river height will flooding affect my property?
Your local council can provide detailed answers and evacuation plans tailored to your area35.
Step 2: Create a Flood Action Plan
A flood action plan ensures you’re ready to act quickly when a flood warning is issued. Here’s what it should include:
Emergency Contacts
Triple Zero (000) for life-threatening emergencies.
State Emergency Service (SES): 132 500 for flood and storm assistance.
Bureau of Meteorology (BoM): For real-time updates on weather warnings.
Evacuation Plan
Identify safe evacuation routes and practice them with your family.
Know where your nearest evacuation center is located.
Emergency Kit
Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as:
First-aid supplies
Drinking water (at least three days’ worth)
Non-perishable food
Portable radio with spare batteries
Flashlight
Important documents (e.g., ID, insurance policies) stored in waterproof bags13.
![Image: Emergency kit essentials laid out neatly]
Step 3: Protect Your Property
Flood-proofing your home can help reduce damage:
Clear gutters and drains regularly.
Store chemicals and hazardous materials on higher shelves.
Keep sandbags ready for use.
Step 4: Stay Informed
Staying informed during a flood event is critical. Use these apps and resources:
Bureau of Meteorology App: For weather updates and warnings.
VicEmergency App: For alerts specific to Victoria.
Emergency+ App: Helps you contact emergency services with precise location data.
Tune in to ABC Local Radio or follow the SES on social media for real-time updates.
What To Do During a Flood
When a flood warning is issued:
Move valuables and furniture to higher ground.
Turn off electricity, gas, and water at the mains.
Avoid entering floodwaters—just 15 cm of moving water can sweep away a car6.
If you must evacuate:
Take pets, medications, spare clothes, and important documents.
Follow evacuation routes carefully and avoid flooded roads.
Important Tip: Never drive through floodwaters. Water can hide potholes, debris, or washed-away roads68.
FAQs About Flood Safety
Can I return home immediately after a flood?
No. Only return when emergency services declare it safe. Floodwaters may contain contaminants such as sewage or chemicals4.
What should I do if I’m caught outside during a flood?
Seek shelter indoors immediately. Avoid low-lying areas like creeks or drains as they can fill rapidly during flash flooding2.
How do I protect my car during a flood?
Move vehicles to higher ground early if flooding is predicted. Never attempt to drive through water-covered roads—it’s not worth the risk7.
After the Flood: What Next?
Once it’s safe to return home:
Wear protective gear while cleaning up.
Document damage for insurance claims by taking photos.
Dispose of any food or water that came into contact with floodwaters.
For financial recovery, check your insurance policy to ensure it covers flood damage—many standard policies don’t4.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Safe
Floods are devastating but manageable with proper preparation. By understanding your risk, creating an action plan, and staying informed during emergencies, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from harm.
Key Emergency Numbers
Life-threatening emergencies: 000
SES (flood assistance): 132 500
VicEmergency Hotline: 1800 226 226
Remember: If it’s flooded—forget it! Stay safe, Australia!