City of Greater Shepparton

City of Greater Shepparton

URL: http://www.greatershepparton.com.au/residents/emergency/floods/floodactionplan/

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Developing your Personal Flood Action Plan

Source: Herald-Sun, Feb 2005

Here is a simple list of considerations to remind yourself, or others in your absence, of things that can be done to lessen the impact of a flood.

Preparing for a flood

If your property is subject to flooding above the floor line, you should have a FloodSafe sticker installed in your meter box and will have a property specific flood chart showing the likely impacts from a minor, moderate or major flood level. You can also check the likely impact on your property from the property maps. Maps are also on display at the Council offices at Welsford Street, Shepparton.

• Check whether your property is subject to flooding.
• Contact your local council for further information.
• Find out how high the water could rise in and around your property
• If a FloodSafe sticker has been installed in your meter box, ascertain how different flood heights are likely to affect your household
• Check your home and contents insurance. Many properties are not covered for flood damage
• Check if you could be cut off by floodwaters
• Assemble an emergency kit
• Keep a list of emergency numbers near the telephone
• Listen to your emergency broadcasters: ABC Local Radio, 97.7 FM
• Anchor any fuel tanks in your yard
• In the event you decide to leave your property, know your safest route
• NEVER walk, ride or drive through floodwater. This is the main cause of death when flooding occurs

Steps to Follow

1. Pay particular attention to weather reports, especially flood warnings. If a flood warning is issued you can access information from the State Emergency Service (SES) website.
2. Become aware how previous floods have affected your property. Refer to your supplied property-specific flood chart.
3. Work out what should be lifted at each flood category, both on the property and also in the house. Stack furniture and possessions above likely flood level. Move your garbage bin, poisons and chemicals to a safe place. Secure objects that can float and cause damage or blockage to drains.
4. Floodwater may be contaminated. Where possible, avoid contact with floodwater and never drink or let children play in floodwater.
5. Evacuation: If you have to evacuate seek advice from VICSES or council if unsure. If leaving remember to leave early, turning off the gas and electricity, and block off the toilet, bath, shower and gully trap if possible to prevent a back flow of sewage into your home (using strong plastic bags filled with sand or soil). Collect personal items, photographs, medicines, pets, etc. Notify the police of your evacuation or leave a note advising where you are going with contact details, if possible. If you decide to stay you must be fully prepared.
6. Prepare and maintain your own Emergency Kit in ready condition for use in a flood. Some suggested items to include in your Emergency Kit are:
   • Portable AM/FM radio and torch with fresh batteries;
   • Mobile phone;
   • Candles with waterproof matches;
   • Stock of fresh water in sealed containers, allow 2 litres/person/day;
   • Tinned food, pet food if required;
   • First Aid Kit;
   • Strong shoes and rubber gloves;
   • Waterproof bag for clothing and valuables, and;
   • Emergency contact numbers for your area.

For more information visit the State Emergency Service website.