Floods and storms

Victoria has a long history of floods, and the Shire itself has been affected by significant flooding in recent years.

Floods can occur slowly (such as riverine flooding) or quickly with little warning (flash flooding). It is important to know whether or not you live or work in a flood prone area.

For current warnings please visit the Bureau of Meteorology website at www.bom.gov.au.

Preparing for a Flood

Here are some actions you can take to be prepared for storms and floods, and minimise the potential for damage to your property:

• Check the condition of the roof and arrange for the repair loose tiles, eaves and roof screws
• Clean gutters and downpipes so water can drain away as quickly as possible
• Trim trees and overhanging branches
• Secure loose items around your property and garden that could cause damage if blown around in high winds such as garden furniture and toys)
• Ensure your home, contents and car insurance is current and covers your assets adequately – check your policy includes debris clean up and disposal costs
• Identify where and how to turn off mains supply for water, power and gas
• Purchase emergency essentials to have on hand, such as:
  • containers to store drinking water supplies
  • spare supply of fuel for use in your vehicle (ensure you store safely)
  • wide masking tape for windows
  • sandbags - hessian bags filled with sand to place over indoor drains to prevent sewerage backwash from flooding
• Store all poisons above ground level in case of flash flooding
• Identify which indoor items you will need to raise or empty if flooding threatens your home (e.g. freezers and refrigerators)

Staying Safe in a Flood

In the event of a flood you should:

• Have your emergency kit handy
• Check that family and neighbours are aware of the warnings
• Listen to your local radio station for information (ABC local radio: 774 AM – Melbourne or 91.1 FM – Bendigo)
• Make sure pets are secure and have shelter in an area unlikely to flood, and move livestock to higher ground
• Block toilets and drains to prevent sewage backflow into the property
• Stack electrical items, valuables, and furniture off the floor, upstairs or move them off-site
• Ensure important records are backed up
• Tie down objects likely to float and cause damage
• Raise poisons, oils and chemicals well above floor level
• Stay away from fallen powerlines
• Wear strong boots and gloves
• Do not drive or walk through flood waters (that may contain sewerage or chemicals)
• If you leave, turn off the power, gas and water supplies at the mains

After the flood:

• Check on your family and immediate neighbours
• Continue to listen to the radio for information
• Do not eat food that has been in contact with flood water
• Boil all drinking water until the authorities say the water supply is safe
• If it is safe to return, check for damage to your property
• If entering a flood-affected building use a torch, never use matches or candles
• Be aware of road hazards such as mud or debris and damaged bridges
• Dry out and clean buildings
• Don't use gas or electrical appliances which have been flood affected, until they have been safety checked
• Be aware of spiders and snakes that may have sought shelter in your property

 To learn more about flooding visit www.floodvictoria.vic.gov.au or check out the VicSES website at www.ses.vic.gov.au.