Remember, flood damage is not usually covered by insurance.

Before flooding

ask your council or State/Territory Emergency Service about local flood plans (or records) which detail problem areas and evacuation routes and centres

if your area is flood-prone, consider alternatives to carpets (eg removable rugs). In ground-level rooms, tiled walls are less likely to be damaged than others and are more easily cleaned

have an emergency kit on hand which includes a: portable radio, torch, and spare batteries stock of canned food and fresh water first aid kit and manual and garden gloves waterproof bags for clothing and valuables.

Keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display: State/Territory Emergency Service Police Local Council

When you hear flood warning or if flood appears likely

tune to your local radio for warnings and advice

plan which indoor items you will raise or empty if water threatens to enter your home

prepare to move vehicles, equipment, garbage, chemicals, and poisons to higher locations

check your emergency kit and remember your pets

If you leave of your own accord, tell police or State/Territory Emergency Service, and your neighbours.

If you need to evacuate

firstly, pack warm clothing, essential medication, valuables, personal papers, photos and mementoes in waterproof bags, to be taken with your emergency kit

raise furniture, clothing and valuables onto beds, tables and into roof space (electrical items highest)

empty freezers and refrigerators, leaving doors open (to avoid damage or loss if they float about). Turn off power, water and gas and take your mobile phone

whether you leave or stay, put sandbags in the toilet bowl and over all laundry/bathroom drain-holes to prevent sewage back-flow

lock your home and take recommended evacuation routes for your area

don't drive into water of unknown depth and current

If you stay or on your return

stay tuned to local radio for updated advice

don't allow children to play in, or near, flood waters

avoid entering flood waters. If you must, wear solid shoes and check depth and current with a stick. Stay away from drains, culverts and water over knee-deep

don't use gas or electrical appliances which have been in floodwater until checked for safety

don't eat food which has been in flood waters

boil tap water until supplies have been declared safe