Floods are a common hazard in New Zealand. A flood becomes dangerous in the following conditions:
- If the water is travelling very fast
- If the water is very deep
- If the floods have risen very quickly
- If the floodwater contains debris, such as trees and sheets of corrugated iron
Getting ready before a flood strikes will help reduce damage to your home and business and help you survive.
Before a flood
- Develop a Household Emergency Plan and prepare an Emergency Survival Kit so that you can cope with being on your own for three days or more
- Find out if your home or business is at risk from flooding. If there is a risk, your local council can give you information to
help you reduce the effects. This information could cover:
- Evacuation plans
- How to protect items in your home or business by raising them above floor level
- How you can reduce the risk of future flooding to your home or business
- Know where the closest high ground is and how to get there
- Keep your insurance up to date
When a flood threatens
- Listen to your local radio station for information and follow the advice and instructions from Civil Defence Emergency Management
- Your local council or Civil Defence Emergency Management Group may issue a warning. Talk to them to find out how they will warn you
During a flood
- Move out of the flooded area or go to the nearest high ground
- Lift household items as high above the floor as possible
- Do not attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters unless it is absolutely essential
- Stay in a safe place. Do not go sightseeing.
After a flood
- If you have been affected, have your house inspected and the damage assessed
- Talk to your local council about ways to reduce the risk of future flooding to your house or business.