Stay safe around floodwater

Be prepared. Stay Alert. Don’t delay. Stay safe.

Be prepared

• Know your local area, particularly if there is a history of flooding.
• Have an emergency kit on hand, including a battery operated radio, torch and spare batteries.
• Keep a list of emergency numbers handy.
• Identify evacuation routes and centres.

Stay alert

• Stay tuned to local media for current weather advice and warnings.
• Keep an eye out for flood waters.
• Don't allow children to play in, or near flood waters.

Don't delay

• Follow instructions and directions from local authorities.
• Be ready to evacuate if necessary.

Stay safe

• Never drive in flood waters.
• Never swim or wade in flood waters.
• Continue to monitor your local media for updated information and advice.
• For life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).
• For storm and flood related property damage, call the State Emergency Service (SES): 132 500.

Prepare to stay safe

Tips to stay safe:

• Don’t feel pressured by vehicles behind you to cross a flooded road. Even fully-equipped swiftwater technicians in boats will only enter the water as a last resort.
• If you’re on holiday, or even just making a day trip, take into account potential rises in water levels and plan your travel so you don’t become stranded. Take note of warning signs that tell of local dangers.
• When poor weather is forecast, listen to your local radio station for information, warnings and prepare for all scenarios.
• In preparation of wet season, talk with schools and childcare centres about alternative arrangements they can put in place if you are unable to collect children on time.
• Keep local emergency numbers handy (near your phone, in your mobile and on your fridge) and in a life‐threatening emergency, call 000 (triple zero).
• Speak to each driver in your household to make sure they have considered how quickly conditions can change and help them be prepared.
• If you or your loved ones require regular medication, make sure this is available in any location it might be needed (school, childcare centre, workplace or your vehicle.)
• Think about the roads you regularly use and plan alternatives – is there a usually reliable alternative route or do you need to rethink your travel.
• Realise that your best plan may be to avoid travel altogether and that sometimes your only option will be to wait it out – in your car, visiting a friend nearby, or spending time at a shopping centre or food outlet – be prepared for all options.
• When the wet season is approaching remind ‘on call’ family or friends that you might need them to help.
• At all times, make sure your phone is charged and a charger is available in the car or at work.
• If you are travelling in an unfamiliar area, seek out and pay close attention to advice from locals.
• Before storms hit, discuss options with your employer for not attending work, working from home, or having a delayed start or early finish.
• Consider alternative modes of transport, such as trains.
• Keep a written list of emergency phone numbers in your car, including ‘on call’ friends, school, work and neighbours.
• In a life‐threatening emergency, call 000 (triple zero) or signal others to call for your rescue.

More information

Learn more about floodwater safety at:
www.getready.qld.gov.au/FloodedForgetIt