If you live or work near a flood-prone area:
- Check with your local SES unit or on the SES website (www.ses.nsw.gov.au) to find out if there is a local FloodSafe Guide for your area. This guide will contain specific flood information relevant to your area.
- Know the height at which your home, business and/or property may be affected by floodwater. Find out how deep the water could get in and around your property.
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- Find out the safest route to travel in the event that you may need to evacuate and identify the height at which your evacuation route may be cut.
- Find out where any evacuation centres will be set up in your area if there is a flood.
- Keep local emergency numbers handy
- Put together an Emergency Kit for your home and business
Preparing for a flood, you should:
- Listen to your local radio station for information updates and advice.
- Locate important papers, valuables and mementoes. Put them in your Emergency Kit and take them with you if you need to evacuate.
- Prepare to take your pets with you.
- Turn off the electricity and gas at the mains before you leave and turn off and secure any gas bottles.
- Relocate livestock and farm equipment, including pumps, to high ground.
- Check sheds and outbuildings. Equipment, feed and chemicals should be raised or moved to high ground.
- If you own a business, where possible, back up records and store off-site. Make preparations to raise or relocate stock, records and equipment.
- Find out about evacuation routes for your business and make sure your employees know when they are likely to close. This will ensure they can leave safely when a Flood Watch is issued.
- If isolation is likely, have sufficient non-perishable food, essential medications, fuel and other necessities to last at least a week. Remember to include pet food and/or stockfeed if required.
During a flood, you should:
- Never drive, ride or walk through floodwater – this is the main cause of death during floods. Floodwater may be deeper and faster flowing than you think and may contain hidden snags and debris. This includes causeways and low-lying roads.
- Stack possessions, records, stock or equipment on benches and tables, placing electrical items on top.
- Secure objects that are likely to float and cause damage.
- Relocate waste containers, chemicals and poisons well above floor level.
- Keep listening to your local radio station for further information, updates and advice.
- Keep in contact with your neighbours.
- Act early, as roads may become congested or closed.
