Knowing about flood safety, especially if you live in a flood-prone area can save lives. People are often panicked in a flood situation so having a clear idea of what to do in a flood, and before & after will make it a lot easier to make effective decisions when you need to. Below is information on what to do before a flood, what to do in a flood and what to do after a flood.
We believe every child deserves a bright future. For over 100 years, Save The Children has been championing children’s rights and working towards our vision of a world in which every child lives, learns and is safe from harm. We run programs that focus on putting children first and in a disaster we provide emergency aid to children and their families. We provide flood relief in Australia and around the world to ensure children have the best chance of survival and recovery. Below is what to do in a flood, before and after.
What to do before a flood
Floods can happen at any time, with little warning. People who are prepared are more likely to respond to floods appropriately and safely. It can be extremely hard to make decisions and take action if you’re panicked during a flood. Having a plan and sticking to it will give you the best chance of survival - you’ll have clear and informed direction on what you need to do, and when.
If you live in a flood-prone area you must have a plan. What to do before a flood is an important step in keeping you & your family safe, will help to minimise damage to your home & surroundings and can help with the recovery process.
If you live in an area where floods are a risk and want to know what to do before a flood, here are some effective flood preparation steps you can take:
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First of all, gauge an understanding of your risks and vulnerabilities. This will enable you to create an informed plan, know the safest routes to take if you need to evacuate and how best to prepare your property
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Ensure you have effective communication channels. Set up your devices so you can receive reliable and up-to-date emergency notifications (e.g. download your state’s emergency app and/or follow emergency services on social media)
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Maintain your property for flood readiness (ensure gutters, downpipes and drains are free of debris and check that loose items around your property are secured)
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Put together an emergency kit including things like torches, a first aid kit, battery operated radio and phone charger, batteries and water) and store it in a safe, easily accessible place. It’s a good idea to make a list of the things you’ll need to take with you at the time too such as medication, important documents, keys, clothing, food supplies, bedding and any valuables such as family heirlooms & photos
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Identify safe places to go or where your local evacuation centres are located - and the safest routes to get there
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Ensure you have adequate insurance that you continue to review and keep up to date
What to do in a flood
During a flood ensure you stay up to date with the latest information and alerts from authorities and follow their advice (including any requests for evacuation). It is best to leave and go to higher ground or somewhere safe before flooding occurs. If it is safe and you have time to do so, place sandbags in areas that will help to prevent water from entering your property, turn off gas & electricity, block drains, toilets & doorways and put valuables up high if you can.
Before you leave, ensure the route you plan to take is safe as some roads may have been damaged or could be underwater. Again, follow instructions from emergency services and make sure you don’t drive through floodwater (it only takes 15cm of water for a vehicle to float). Make sure you inform friends & family of your plans and where you’ll be located.
If you are in danger or are unsure what to do and how to make your way somewhere safe, contact emergency services.
What to do after a flood
In addition to knowing what to do in a flood - it is important to know what to do in a flood, before and after. Once a flood has come through there can be many potential dangers so again, make sure you follow the advice of authorities and that you have the all-clear to return to your home.
Here is what to do after a flood when you return home:
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Wear protective gear such as strong boots, gloves and protective clothing
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Check for damage, potential contaminants & hazards and ensure the structural stability of your property before entering
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Make sure the electricity and gas are turned off before going inside if you didn't turn them off before leaving. Have them professionally tested before turning them back on
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Before disposing of anything check with your local council on how to dispose of things safely as they may be contaminated
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Assume that anything that has come into contact with flood water may be contaminated so don't eat food and clean utensils etc thoroughly before use.
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Continue to keep friends & family informed. Going through a flood can be a traumatic time, it's important to keep up communication and seek help if you or your family members need it
Our emergency aid programs
Research shows that climate change is having an impact on the frequency & scale of floods across the globe and right now, millions of children live in flood-prone areas. We are working hard to help children and their communities adapt to the impacts of the climate crisis, including floods.
In a disaster, we know that children are the most vulnerable. Our emergency flood response teams can act quickly to provide immediate life-saving aid to children and their families impacted by floods with the capacity to stay on to help with the longer-term recovery. We ensure children have what they need to survive with safe places for them to play and learn. We ensure they have the support in place to help them cope with traumatic experiences and work to reunite children that may have been separated from their families.
Donate today to help flood victims
To support our emergency flood response efforts and help children & their families impacted by floods you can make a single donation today or become a monthly giver. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.