Every year, floods destroy homes and businesses and cost millions of dollars in damages. While you may think that you are safe from a flood because you don’t live near a river or the ocean, remember that flash flooding can occur anywhere it rains hard for an extended period of time.
To protect yourself and your property, it is important to understand the facts about residential flooding.
Here are ten important things everyone should know.
1. Floods are the most common natural disaster in Australia.
Australia is one of the most flood-prone countries in the world. On average, there are around 20 major floods every year.
2. Floods can happen anywhere it rains.
You don’t have to live near a river or the ocean to be at risk of flooding. Flash flooding can occur anywhere it rains hard for an extended period of time. It is important to be cautious and prepared when severe weather is forecast.
3. Floodwaters can rise rapidly and without warning.
Flash flooding can occur within minutes or hours of heavy rain. Floodwaters can rise rapidly and overflow onto roads, into homes and businesses. Be alert and ready to evacuate if you are told to do so by authorities.
4. Floods can last for days or even weeks.
Flooding can last for days or weeks, so it is important to be prepared with enough food, water and other supplies to last you this time. If you evacuate, make sure you have a plan for where you will go and how you will stay in touch with loved ones.
It can be an overwhelming time for most people and it is important to be aware of the potential risks and how to protect yourself.
5. Floodwaters can be very dangerous.
Floodwaters can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals and other pollutants. They can also be filled with fast-moving water that can sweep you off your feet. It is important to avoid floodwaters if possible and never drive through them.
6. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down.
It only takes six inches of moving water to knock an adult down. Just two feet of water can sweep away most cars. This is why it is so important to never try and drive through floodwaters.
7. Six inches of fast-flowing water can damage your car.
As little as six inches of fast-flowing water can damage your vehicle. Fast-flowing water is powerful and can quickly sweep your car off the road. If you must drive in floodwaters, make sure you know the depth of the water and the condition of the road ahead.
8. Flood damage is not covered by standard home insurance.
Flood damage is not typically covered by standard home insurance policies. If you want to be protected from flood damage, you will need to purchase separate flood insurance.
9. You can prepare for a flood by creating an emergency kit.
You can prepare for a flood by creating an emergency kit with enough food, water and supplies to last you and your family for at least three days. You should also have a plan for where you will go and how you will stay in touch with loved ones if you need to evacuate.
10. Floods can happen suddenly and without warning.
While you may think you are safe from a flood because you don’t live near a river or the ocean, remember that flash flooding can occur anywhere it rains hard for an extended period of time. Be prepared and stay alert during severe weather conditions.
If you are ever caught in a flood, remember to stay calm and act quickly. Never try to drive through floodwaters. If your home is flooded, call your flood damage restoration company and make sure you take photos of the damage for documentation purposes. Most importantly, stay safe and be prepared.