Storm & Flood Emergencies

Storms can occur regularly no matter what time of year it is.

Storms differ in severity and can be accompanied by strong winds, torrential rain, lightning and hailstones of all sizes.

Storms can cause roof damage, flash flooding, damaged or fallen trees and powerlines and these are all a safety risk to people, animals, households and businesses.

WARNING:

• Never try to walk, swim, drive or play in floodwater. You may not be able to see on the surface how fast the floodwater is moving or see holes and submerged debris
• Never play around high water, storm drains, ditches, ravines or culverts and
• It is easy to be swept away by fast moving water.

How to be prepared for a Storm Event

Things you can do to reduce the impact of storms:

• Prepare your Household Emergency Plan
• Inspect and fix fences, roofs and gutters for damage or loose materials
• Clean your gutters and downpipes frequently
• Seal any cracks in the foundation and exterior walls
• Ensure branches near your home and powerlines are trimmed
• Keep your yard or balcony/patio free from clutter
• Check that you have adequate insurance cover for your home and contents

• Keep a list of emergency numbers near the telephone. For a flood and storm emergency call VICSES on 132 500

  • Assemble an emergency kit and
  • Help your neighbours to prepare their homes.

During a Storm Event

During a storm event it's important you stay calm and...

• Listen to the radio for emergency messaging
• Have an emergency kit handy
• Move or secure objects from around your house and yard
• Ensure children are inside
• Stay clear of windows
• Make sure that pets and animals are secure and have shelter or bring them inside and
• Move vehicles into a garage or under shelter and away from trees.

If you are caught outside during a storm take shelter but stay clear of trees.

If you are caught in your vehicle during a storm

• DO NOT drive into water of unknown depth and current. The majority of flood-related deaths in Australia are as a result of people entering flood water
• Ensure your headlights are on and SLOW DOWN
• Be alert and watch for hazards on the road, such as powerlines and
• If visibility becomes low put on your hazard lights and pull over to the side of the road in a clear safe area.

After the Storm Event

Once the storm has passed:

• Check for damage to your house, If you need assistance from VICSES, call 132 500
• Continue to listen to the radio for information
• Check on your neighbours
• Stay well clear of creeks, drains, fallen trees, fallen powerlines and damaged structures and
• Ensure children are supervised.

If flooding occurs

• Avoid driving or walking through floodwaters. If you must enter floodwaters, wear solid shoes, not thongs or bare feet, and check the depth and current with a stick
• Stay away from drains, culverts and water that is more than knee-deep
• Floodwaters may contain sewage, take precautions
• Stay away from fallen powerlines – electrical current passes easily through water
• If your car stalls in rising water, abandon it immediately and seek shelter above floodwater
• Be aware that animals may enter your house during a flood, such as spiders and snakes to find a drier area
• Wait for rescuers to come for you, avoid swimming to safety
• If outdoors, climb to high ground and stay there
• Keep listening to a local radio station for information and advice
• Keep in contact with your neighbours where possible and
• Be prepared to leave early if required.

Further Information

For a flood and storm emergency call VICSES on 132 500.
For life threatening emergency call 000.