Flash floods are usually associated with severe thunderstorms. In the case of widespread flooding which normally develops over several hours or days, it is the prolonged nature of a rainy spell which gives the signal for possible floods.

Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters

Heed the Warnings!

If a flood warning is in effect, heed the warnings and get to a safe place as soon as possible. Make sure to gather the necessary supplies, which should include the following:

• Flashlight
• Batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Food
• Bottled Water
• Can opener
• Cash / Credit Cards
• Necessary Medications
• Identification
• Good Footwear
• Waterproof clothing
• Mobile phone (fully charged)

Avoid Driving

Being in a car is probably one of the worst places you can be during a flood. About 50% of flood related deaths are people who are driving or trying to move a stalled car. If a flood is coming, your best option is to move to higher ground. If at all possible choose to stay in your house rather than drive somewhere else. Go to the attic of the top floor and wait until the water levels have lowered.

Driving When a Flood Hits

If you do find yourself in a car when a flood hits, try to stay calm and realise that your life and your passenger’s life is worth more than the safety of your car. Never attempt to drive through a flood. You cannot accurately judge the depth of the water – be careful it can be deceptive.

It is easy to flood your car by attempting to drive through a flood. The water can easily cease the engine, engulf the vehicle and sweep you away. If you approach a flooded road, turn back and find an alternative route.

If your car does become surrounded by water, leave the car as soon as possible. The water will act with great force on your car and can slam it into buildings, other cars, bridges etc. Do not attempt to move or restart your car – it will be virtually impossible in flood waters.

Just 150mm (6inches) of fast flowing water can knock you off your feet!
Many people die in floods because they try to save their cars. Don’t let it be you – Just get yourself to higher ground.

Precautions if flooding looks likely:

• Protect doorways and low level vents with sandbags.
• Move valuables, food and other possessions upstairs where possible.
• Turn off gas and electricity if flooding is definitely about to happen.
• Assume that flood water may contain sewage - Ensure that you wear gloves when handling affected items.
• Thoroughly disinfect and dry affected household items.

If the interior of a house floods, do no use electrical equipment until you are sure it has dried out thoroughly. Before using your electricity supply again, have it checked by an electrician.

600mm (2 feet) of water will float you!

Some dos and don’ts (after a flood):

• Contact your insurance company.
• Contact the gas, electricity and water companies. You will need to have your supplies checked before you turn them back on.
• Open the doors and windows to ventilate the house
• Watch out for any broken glass, nails and other sharp objects when cleaning up.
• Do not turn on any electrical equipment until you are sure it has dried out.
• Do not allow children to play in floodwater and wash hands frequently.
• Do not use food that has been in contact with flood water.