Preparing for Floods
Emergency Management Australia's booklet What to do before, during and after a flood (PDF, 865kb) contains useful information on how to prepare for and minimise the effects of flooding.
We can’t prevent flash floods but as a home or business owner, you can minimise the impact on your property by following these basic steps:
- Keep your local drains clear of litter and debris to avoid blocked drains that can cause floods. Even if the debris doesn’t block your own drains, it could be swept downhill and cause flooding elsewhere.
- Apply for a planning permit for any redevelopment or new building works if your property has been defined as flood prone. In some cases, changes may be required, such as raising floor levels, or reorienting new building and driveways in a way that does not obstruct the flow of stormwater.
- Avoid home improvement practices that exacerbate flood risks. For example, consider grading paved areas such as paths and patios, as well as other landscaping, so they direct flows around or away from your house or garage.
- Remember that electricity and floodwater are a potentially hazardous mix and talk to a licensed electrician about safety switches or raising power points and switches to higher levels.
- Store valuable possessions in a place where they won’t get damaged. This may involve using shelves in garages and not under the house where they could get damaged.
- Commercial properties may need to consider an individual flood management plan and consider evacuation procedures, possible flood proofing measures and a recovery plan.
You should also place emergency telephone numbers by the phone and insure your home or business against flood damage. For more information contact the Insurance Council of Australia.
Downloads
You will need Adobe Acrobat to access the above PDF documents. 