What's your plan? The SES recommends that everyone should have an emergency plan and kit in preparation for floods.

It is easy to think "it won't happen to me" until it actually does. Having a plan and knowing what do and when to do it could not only save your home and valuables, it could also save your life.

• Check whether your residence or business is subject to flooding. Contact your local council for further information.
• If it is subject to flooding, find out how high the water could rise in and around your property, especially if there is a likelihood you could be cut off by floodwaters
• Know the safest route to leave your property and make sure everyone in the house knows what it is
• Check your home and contents insurance! Many properties are not covered for flood.
• Keep a list of emergency numbers near the phone
• Assemble an emergency kit

If it is likely that flooding will occur, take action immediately:

• Stack possessions on benches and tables with electrical goods in the highest places
• Secure objects that are likely to float and cause damage
• Locate important papers, valuables and mementoes and put them in your emergency kit
• Business owners should raise stock, records and equipment above floor level
• Have sufficient non-perishable food, essential medications, fuel and other necessities to last at least a week (include pet food and stock feed if required).

• Rural property owners should move livestock and farm equipment and relocate pumps to high ground
• Check sheds and outbuildings and relocate feed and waste containers and chemicals well above floor level

And always remember -

NEVER enter flood water - if it's flooded, forget it.