Monitor local flood warnings

Check weather forecasts, water levels and official announcements regularly. Plan a safe route out of the area and agree on a family meeting point so everyone knows what to do if conditions change.

Keep important documents and essentials ready to grab

Place identification documents, important paperwork, essential medication and valuables in waterproof pouches or containers. Keep them together where you can pick them up quickly, and save digital copies of important documents somewhere you can access when needed.

Prioritise belongings to move to higher ground

Plan to move electrical appliances, work equipment and items vulnerable to water damage to a higher location before floodwater arrives. Place them on stable surfaces, avoid stacking heavy items where they could fall and keep walkways and exits clear.

Pack by category and label every box

Group belongings by room or type. Use suitable containers, close them securely and label the contents clearly. This makes it easier to prioritise what to move and find essential items when you need them.

Important: Cardboard boxes and ordinary wrapping film do not protect belongings from being submerged. Move packed items to a safe location in advance.

Plan for electrical safety before water enters

Before floodwater reaches your electrical system, switch off the main circuit breaker only if you can do so safely from a dry location. Never touch switches or electrical equipment while wet or standing in water.

If water has already reached the electrical system, do not enter the flooded area to turn off the power. Contact your local electricity provider for assistance.

Prepare an emergency bag and an evacuation plan

Pack drinking water, ready-to-eat food, essential medication, a torch and a power bank. Plan how to help children, older adults, anyone who needs assistance and pets leave safely.

If authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Do not return to an unsafe area to collect belongings.