As QLD and NSW prepares for further flooding which will affect many 1000′s, our blog covers information on preparing for a flood, as well as recovery. We also look at what those of us not affected can do to assist our fellow Australians in this time of need.
Preparing for Floods
What is a flood
A flood is retention of water in the landscape due to excess rain that occurs in low-lying areas and/or near watercourses that can lead to water overflow. Flash floods can occur when a storm moves slowly, so that a small area receives most of the rain, but the drainage and runoff characteristics on the ground can also determine the area of greatest impact.
What can you do to prepare for floods
- Ask your council about local flood plans which detail problem areas and evacuation routes and centres
- Prepare an emergency kit (emergency phone numbers, portable radio, torch, spare batteries, first aid kit, strong plastic bags for clothing, valuables, and plastic sheets, timber strips, hammers and nails for temporary repairs)
- Add SES 132 500 & your local council to your mobile contacts. Search local gov directory for your council http://ow.ly/3C79o
- Help is also needed with filling Sand bags http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=159754484072572
What can you do when you hear a flood warning
- Listen to your local radio station for severe storm advice and warnings;
- Plan to move vehicles, outdoor equipment, garbage, chemicals and poisons to higher locations;
- Plan which indoor items you will raise or empty if water threatens your home (e.g. freezers and refrigerators) and;
- Check your emergency kit and safeguard your pets.
- Let people know where you are & you are safe, either through text messages (try to save as much phone battery life as possible though) and through the Red Cross National Registration Inquiry Systehttps://emergency.redcross.org.au/
What to do if you need to evacuate
- Pack warm clothing, essential medications, valuables, personal papers, mobile phone, photos and mementos in waterproof bags to be taken with your emergency kit;
- Raise furniture, clothing and valuables on to beds, tables and into roof spaces;
- Empty freezers and refrigerators, leaving doors open;
- Turn off power, water and gas;
- Whether you leave or stay, put sandbags in the toilet bowl and over all laundry/bathroom drain holes to prevent sewage back-flow;
- Lock your home and take recommended evacuation routes for your area; and
- Don’t drive in water of unknown depth and current.
What do you do if you stay or on your return
- Listen to your local radio station for official Advices and Warnings;
- Don’t allow children to play in, or near flood waters;
- Avoid entering floodwaters. If you must, wear solid shoes and check depth and current with a stick;
- Stay away from drains, culverts and water over knee-deep;
- Don’t use gas or electrical appliances which have been in flood water until checked for safety;
- Don’t eat food which has been in flood waters; and
- Boil tap water until supplies have been declared safe.
Relief and Recovery
- Check out this website for links to services that assist with assistance and support to recover from the event http://www.qld.gov.au/floods/support.html.
- Call this number 1802266 for emergency relief
- Check out our topic page on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder for information on signs, symptoms and ways to recover.
- Lifeline crisis line 13 11 14 are available 24/7 you can also check out their self care tips here http://www.lccq.org.au/community-recovery/tips-for-those-affected-by-floods
I am not affected but what can I do?
Are you close enough to volunteer? Then check out www.volunteeringqld.org.au
Get involved in the clean up. Register your interest here http://officialmissionaustralia.blogspot.com/2011/01/ma-calls-for-flood-clean-up-volunteers.html
Help fill sand bags http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=159754484072572
Become an Everyday Hero and raise funds for the Red Cross http://everydayhero.com.au/
Donate to the Premiers Relief Appeal http://www.qld.gov.au/floods/donate.html
Donate via the Salvos – they would rather money than goods to meet specific needs https://salvos.org.au/donate/secure-online-donations/
Check in on your friends who are affected – may a message via email, Facebook, text to let them you know are thinking about them, and are there of they need assistance, a listening ear can be so important during these times, not just now but after the events – even weeks after. Check out our topic page on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder to find out what they may be going through.
If you are close by, but in a safe area, can you look after peoples pets, can you provide a base for friends affected?
Info Sources: http://www.emergency.qld.gov.au/emq/css/flood.asp
Stay safe everyone, our thoughts are with you all
