News

Many communities throughout NSW have experienced heavy rainfall over the past few days which has led to an increased risk of flash flooding with further unsettled weather on the way. As a result of this severe weather NSW SES volunteers have been hard at work assisting there local communities with over 2,300 request for assistance.

Many catchments across NSW are now saturated and with further heavy rain predicted flash flooding is also possible. We ask the community to remain vigilant and stay up to date with the latest information and warnings.

The NSW SES is also urging Residents and business to have a plan for what they will do if impacted by flash flooding and stay up to date with the latest warnings and information at www.ses.nsw.gov.au

If you live, work or visit a flood‐prone area there are 8 tips you can do NOW to prepare for floods:

1. Know your risk

• Find out about the local flood history
• Know the heights at which your home, business and/or property could be affected by floodwater
• Contact your local council if you want more information on how flooding could directly affect your property
• Talk with people who have been in the area a long time for about their experiences of floods locally
• Be aware of the natural signs of flooding
• Know how you may be warned of popssible flooding

2. Know where to go

• Find the safest route to travel in the event that you might need to evacuate and identify the height at which your evacuation route may be cut
• Find out where any evacuation centres could be set up in your area
• Check with friends and relatives outside the flood prone area to organise a place to go

3. Know who to call

• For emergency help in floods and storms, call the NSW SES on 132 500
• Keep local emergency numbers handy (near your phone, in your mobile and on your fridge)
• In a life‐threatening emergency, call 000 (triple zero)

4. Know your plan

• To help households and businesses plan for flooding, the NSW SES has developed Emergency Plan templates:

             NSW SES Emergency Plans

• Complete, share and practice your plan with family and neighbours
• Review your plan annually and after flood events

5. Get your kit together

• Put together an emergency kit for your home or business

            Get your kit together 

6. Prepare now to act early

• Talk with your local NSW SES members about being FloodSafe
• Know the triggers, warnings and natural signs of flooding so that you can act quickly
• Practice your plan and share it with neighbours

7. Check your insurance

• Make sure your insurance is suitable to your situation and risk
• Check the coverage is adequate
• Make sure your insurance is current

8. Listen to local radio

• Listen to local radio for information, updates and advice
• Information will also be posted through social media