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Prepare for Floods

Simple steps you can take to get prepared

The key to minimising damage from floods and rising waters is to prepare early. Get started with the short video and 5 helpful tips on this page.

5 things you can do to help prepare for floods

1

Know your flood risk

Check with your local floodplain management authority to see whether your property is at a high risk of flooding. Depending on where you live this could be the local council, catchment management authority, water authority, or territory government.

2

Have an emergency flood plan and practice it with your household

Understand the warnings and signs that will trigger your flood plan. Know in advance your flood-safe evacuation routes, where you will stay and who you will call. Put together an emergency kit and protect sentimental belongings by placing them on high shelves or in waterproof bags.

3

Move what household items you can to a higher place

Put furniture and rugs up onto beds and tables. Place electrical items on top of furniture and cupboards.

4

Turn off the electricity, gas and water

Switching these off helps prevent electrical hazards, gas leaks and additional water damage during a flood. If you are unsure how to turn off, please contact a professional.

5

Store poisons well above ground level

Store poisons and chemicals on high shelves to reduce contamination of flood water. 

Get your home prepared for extreme weather risks

Once you understand what extreme weather risks are affecting your area you can take action and help to prepare for them. Click the weather risks relevant to your area to find out how to prepare for specific extreme weather events.

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Things you should know

All content is intended to be general in nature and does not constitute and is not intended to be financial or professional advice. While NRMA Insurance has tried to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on these pages, you should not rely on any representation, statement or information without first making your own enquiries about the accuracy and reliability of the information provided. NRMA Insurance does not accept any liability for the information provided on this site or for loss or damages resulting from reliance on the information contained on this site.

It is important to note that seasonal risk levels displayed in this map are general in nature and are based on the opinion of NRMA Insurance for each state and territory, taking into account a range of internal sources, including, insurance claims statistics. The seasonal risk levels provided for your state or territory should be used at your own risk, and are not reflective of individual property risks. The opinions provided by NRMA Insurance are not intended to be advice about future seasonal risk levels in your state or territory.