Floods are the most frequent natural danger. They can be caused by continuous heavy rain or thunderstorms. Floods can cause injury and fatalities, damage to property, loss of stock, and contamination of water and land.
Before a flood
- Check your weather forecast if there is a storm forecast. Severe weather warnings are updated regularly on metservice.com .
- Take note of where the closest high ground is and how to get there
- Develop a emergency plan and kit. For what should be included, have a look at survive-it.
- If you have enough time, try to protect your house and belongings. Turn off electricity and gas, and move belongings to higher levels (if possible).
- Check your insurance policy to ensure you have sufficient cover.
During a flood
- Listen to local radio stations for information
- Take your emergency kit and move to higher ground.
- Fill bathtubs, sinks, and storage containers with clean water in case water becomes contaminated. Also try and boil your kettle to have clean water.
- Never cross a flooded area either by foot or car.
After a flood
- Listen to local radio for instructions
- Help others if you can, especially people who may require special assistance
- Before re-entering your home, ensure it is safe to do so. Contact a qualified electrician if your power was not turned off prior to the flood. Get all electronic appliances checked by an electrician.
- Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are certain it is not contaminated.
- List and throw away any food that has been contaminated by flood water
- Look for and report broken utility lines
- If your home or property has been damaged, make lists and photos for insurance purposes. Contact your insurance company to lodge a claim. If you rent, contact your landlord and Trade Me Insurance as soon as possible. The faster you contact us, the faster we can get your home and contents sorted.
Still unsure? Fire up a live chat or contact us, we are here to help.