Conditions can change rapidly during a flood so it's vital you know what to do to stay safe. Our checklist of flood emergency procedures can help minimise property damage and keep your family out of harms' way.
Flood alerts are issued by the Bureau of Meteorology, based on water levels recorded by monitored flood gauges. Real time data from these gauges are used to predict timings around the height the water will reach, according to state emergency services. Alerts are escalated to a flood evacuation warning when your area and its access routes are under threat of inundation. An evacuation order is issued by the SES only when required.
Make sure you have flood emergency procedures and a flood disaster plan in place. State emergency services recommend:
Read our What to do Before a Flood article for more information.
If flood waters are likely to rise to dangerous levels, or conditions point to the risk of a flash flood, you may need to evacuate your home. Evacuation orders can be issued in person, by a member of the SES or police door knocking, via radio, or by automated phone or SMS message.
Personal safety is your top priority. Don't linger in an effort to protect your property or find documents or belongings.
If you are evacuating, "Never drive through flooded roadways or crossings," says David Kneipp, QBE's National Catastrophe Claims Manager. "And always heed advice from state and local authorities, police and the SES."
If you have been affected by a flood, contact QBE to make a claim. Keep up to date with their weather and policy alerts.
This article is intended as a general guide only. You should consult your state fire and emergency services for further information.
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