Floods
Floods are a natural and inevitable part of life along the rivers of our country. Some floods are seasonal as when summer rains drain down narrow tributaries and fill river basins with too much water too quickly. Others are sudden...the result of heavy rain.
Flood Action Guide
If your area is subject to flooding, the following advice could help save your property or your life.
Please ensure you and your family read the whole of this guide.
1. Know Your Local Flood History & Plan
Ask your council or State/Territory Emergency Service: What the terms 'major', 'moderate' and 'minor flooding' mean to your area and at what 'official river height' your home becomes isolated or inundated. Details of local flood plan, whether you may need to evacuate and how to get to the nearest safe location.
2. Emergency Kit - Check List During and after a flood you will need:
- A portable radio and torch with fresh batteries
- Candles and water proof matches
- Reasonable stocks of fresh water and tinned food
- A first aid kit and basic first aid knowledge
- Good supplies of essential medication
- String shoes and rubber gloves
- A waterproof bag for clothing and valuables
- Your emergency contact numbers. (State Emergency Service 3202 1711, Police/Fire/Ambulance (000), Local Council 3810 6666).
3. Act On Flood Warnings
- Listen to your local radio/TV for further information
- Check that your neighbours know of the warning
- Stack furniture and possessions above likely flood level, on beds and in roof (electrical items on top)
- Move garbage, chemicals, poisons to a high place
- Secure objects that could float and cause damage
- Protect/relocate valuable stock and equipment
- If on the land, move livestock to high ground
- Check your car and fill it with fuel
- Check emergency kit and fresh water stocks
4. If you need to evacuate
You may be advised to evacuate by local authorities, but if you leave of your own accord, tell police or State/Territory Emergency Service (S/TES) and your neighbours. In either case, take the following actions:
- Empty freezers and refrigerators leaving doors open (to avoid floating and subsequent damage)
- Collect and secure your personal valuables, papers, money, photo albums and family mementos
- Turn off power, gas, water, and take your emergency kit
- Whether you leave or stay, place a sandbag in the toilet bowl to prevent back-flow of sewage into your home.
5. During and after the flood
If you remain in your home, or when you return, take these precautions:
- Keep your emergency kit safe and dry
- Do not eat food which has been in contact with flood water and even boil all tap water until supplies have been declared safe
- Don't use gas or electrical appliances which have been flood-affected, until they have been safety-checked
- Beware of snakes and spiders which may move to drier areas in your house
- Avoid wading, even in shallow water, as it may be contaminated - if you must enter shallow flood water, wear solid shoes and check depth with a stick
- Check with police for safe routes before driving anywhere and don't enter water without checking depth and current
- Keep listening to your local radio and TV station and heed all warnings and advice. Brought to you by your State/Territory Emergency Service.
Flood Information
If your area is subject to flooding, the following advice could help save your property or your life.
Please ensure you and your family read the whole of this guide.
What are Floods?
Floods are a natural and inevitable part of life along the rivers of our country. Some floods are seasonal as when summer rains drain down narrow tributaries and fill river basins with too much water too quickly. Others are sudden...the result of heavy rain. These are flash floods...raging torrents which rip through stream beds after heavy rains...surge over their banks and sweep everything before them.
At the commencement of a rain period most of the rainfall is absorbed by the ground. This is referred to as the ‘initial loss' and is an important consideration in the assessment of flood potential. However, if the rain continues the ground will become saturated and soil and vegetation cannot absorb falling rain then the precipitation
runs off the land in such quantities that it cannot be carried in normal stream channels or retained in natural ponds and man made reservoirs almost immediately being carried away in a myriad of rivulets to creeks and streams.
When rainfall is excessive the natural drains overflow and a flood results. The time scale of the flooding and its extent depend on the size of the river or creek, the nature of its catchment and the duration and intensity of rainfall as well as a number of other factors.
Flood Information Centres issue flood forecasts when the rain that has fallen is enough to cause rivers to overflow their banks.
On small streams...especially near the headwaters of river basins ...water levels may rise rapidly in heavy storms and flash floods can begin before the rain stops falling. There is little time between threatening flood conditions and the arrival of the flood crest, so swift actions are essential for the protection of life and property.
The Local Authority must determine the possibility of flash flood producing rains reaching his area of responsibility. When this threat exists a flood warning is issued to the public. The means you should check preparedness requirements...keep informed...and be ready for immediate action if required.
When radar or observer reports indicate that flash flooding is likely or is occurring...a flash flood warning is issued. Any flood warning requires prompt reaction especially if you are in an area subject to flooding. Flash flood warnings are one of the most urgent types of weather warnings issued and they are transmitted to the public by the most rapid means available.
Preparation is the key. Every resident of a community should know what a river height means in terms of his own situation. They should know how far their property is above or below anticipated flood levels and how this elevation relates to the river gauge for which forecasts are prepared. Always have a plan to move to higher or safer ground should flooding threaten your area.
Flood Warnings
Minor flooding:
This causes inconvenience such as closures of minor roads and submergence of low level bridges. The effect may be felt in the reach of the river in question in the vicinity of the gauge or at some distance upstream or down stream.
Moderate flooding:
Causes inundation of low lying areas requiring the removal of stock and evacuation of houses. Main traffic bridges may be covered.
Major flooding:
Causes inundation of large areas isolating towns and cities. Major disruption occurs to road and rail communications and evacuation of many houses is required.
Flooding Takes Many Forms
Flash and creek flooding
Most creeks in the vicinity of Brisbane and Ipswich have a very rapid response to excessive rainfall. In flash flooding, waters rise and subsequently fall very rapidly and sometimes the whole flood can be over in less than 12 hours.
Flash floods often occur in a number of creeks simultaneously. Sometimes when intense rainfall is very localised, as in thunderstorms, flash flooding can be confined to just one creek. This can also occur in normally dry gullies, even in residential areas. Most major flash flooding is associated with major synoptic weather systems which have produced continuous rain over at least 24 hours interspersed with short but very high intensity rainfall periods.
River Flooding
This occurs on a much longer time scale than creek and flash flooding. The river rises and falls slowly and may remain above flood height for up to a week.
Flooding along rivers is a natural and inevitable part of life. Some floods occur when seasonal rains fill river basins with too much water, too quickly. Torrential rains from decaying cyclones or tropical lows can also produce river flooding. Rivers behave differently in each flood.
It is important to note that falls in river heights might just be tidal variations. It is essential to listen to forecasts as well and not just rely on river height readings.
Backwater Flooding
When a river is in flood, the river surface level in the main trunk stream at the junction of the tributary creeks and rivers causes water to back up into the tributaries.
The addition of flood run off from the tributaries causes higher backwater levels in the lower reaches of these tributaries.
Coastal
Winds generated from tropical storms and cyclones or intense offshore low pressure systems can drive ocean water inland and cause significant flooding. Escape routes can be cut off and blocked by high water.
Storm Surges
A storm surge is an increase in water level caused principally by atmospheric pressure reduction, and/or the wind set-up when strong winds pile up water in the general downwind direction.
Storm surges are particularly important with tropical cyclones, but must be considered a risk with any persistent strong wind condition, particularly when the water is constrained by a coast line and the depth becomes shallow. This causes the resulting surge to be considerably amplified.
In areas where the high tide level is not far below flood level, it only takes a small surge to produce flooding.
Storm surges can also be produced by sea waves called tsunamis sometimes referred to as tidal waves. These waves are produced by earthquakes or volcanic activity.
Urban Flooding
As land is converted from fields or woodlands to roads and parking lots, it loses its ability to absorb rainfall.
Urbanisation increases run off 2 to 6 times over what would occur on natural terrain. During periods of urban flooding, streets can become swift moving rivers, while basements can become death traps as they fill with water.
Flash Floods
Several factors contribute to flash flooding. The two key elements are rainfall intensity and duration. Intensity is the rate of rainfall, and duration is how long the rain lasts. Topography, soil conditions, and ground cover also play an important role.
Flash floods occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall, a dam or levee failure. Flash floods can roll large rocks, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges, and scour out new channels. Rapidly rising water can reach heights of 6 meters, even in this area it is able to reach heights of 3 meters or more. Furthermore, flash flood-producing rains can also trigger catastrophic mud slides. You will not always have a warning that these deadly, sudden floods are coming. Most flood deaths are due to Flash Floods.
Most flash flooding is caused by slow-moving thunderstorms, thunderstorms repeatedly moving over the same area, or heavy rains from cyclones and tropical storms.
Occasionally, floating debris can accumulate at a natural or man-made obstruction and restrict the flow of water. Water held back by the debris dam can cause flooding upstream. Subsequent flash flooding can occur downstream if the obstruction should suddenly release.
Water-carved gully's or normally dry creek beds can fill with fast-moving water very quickly.
An example of a flash flood in the Ipswich area:
In December 1991, in Bundamba Creek, Ipswich, QLD
Flash flooding occurred after a heavy rain storm in the catchment after several days of heavy rain, this resulted in the creek rising some 1.5 meters in approximately 15 minutes. The Creek was unable to contain the amount of water and a wall of flood water approximately 1.5 metres high left the confines of the normal stream.
This wall of water caused considerable damage to residential and especially commercial properties, where solid brick walls were knocked over by the force of the water, and much stock was damaged.
Whilst during this flood no lives were lost many people's livelyhoods and personal lives were thrown into turmoil.
An example of the cost of a flash flood in the USA:
In June 9, 1972 at Black Hills Rapid City, South Dakota USA
Flash Flooding occurred after 15 inches (375 mm) of rain fell in only 5 hours.
This caused 238 fatalities and one hundred and sixty four million USA dollars in damages.
Source: (US) National Weather Service
Flash Flood Safety Rules
Flash flood waves...moving at incredible speeds...can roll large rocks...tear out trees...destroy buildings and bridges...and scour out new channels. Killing walls of water can reach heights of 3 to 6 meters. You will not always have warning that these deadly...sudden floods are coming.
When a flash flood warning is issued for your area or the moment you first realise that a flash flood is imminent...act quickly to save yourself. You may have only seconds.
- Get out of areas subject to flooding. this includes dips...low spots...gullies...dry creeks...etc.
- Avoid already flooded and high velocity flow areas. Do not try to cross a flowing stream on foot where water is above your knees.
- If driving...know the depth of the water in a dip before crossing. The road bed may not be intact under the water.
- If the vehicle stalls...abandon it immediately and seek higher ground. rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognise flood dangers.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes... particularly during threatening conditions.
- During any flood emergency stay tuned to your radio...or television. Information from the Bureau of Meteorlogy, disaster and emergency services may save your life.
Many Flash Floods can occur at night...Be prepared to take quick action.
How can a half a meter or so of water cost you your life? Water weighs 1000kg per cubic meter and typically flows downstream at 2 to 3 meters per second.
Planning
Plan ahead
Identify where to go if told to evacuate. Choose several places...a friend's home or a motel in another suburb, or a shelter. Let relatives know where you plan to go.
Know your area's flood risk. For information, call your local Council or local State Emergency Service. Check your home owner's or renter's insurance. Home owners' policies do not necessarily cover flooding. Contact your insurance agent to find out how to get flood insurance.
Flooding can occur Australia wide
Environmental Clues to Flooding
Listen for:
- Distant thunder, run off from a faraway thunderstorm could be headed your way.
Look out for:
River/rainfall readings are valuable to local emergency services in assessing flood conditions and taking appropriate actions. Advanced warning provided by early detection is critical to saving lives. Automatic flood detection systems are in use in some flood-prone communities.
Contact your local Authority for further information on Local Flood Warning Systems.
Remember:
- Even 15cm (6 inches) of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet, and a depth of 60cm (2 feet) will float your car!
- Never try to walk, swim, or drive through such swift water.
- If you come upon flood waters, Stop. Turn around and go another way.
Before the flood
What You can do:
- Know what the terms 'major', 'moderate' and 'minor flooding' mean to your area and at what 'official river height' your home becomes isolated or inundated.
- Know details of local flood history and plan whether you may need to evacuate and how to get to the nearest safe location. Know your flood risk and elevation above flood levels.
- Do your local streams or rivers flood easily?
If so, be prepared to move to a place of safety. Know your evacuation routes.
- Keep your automobile fuelled; if electric power is cut off, gas stations may not be able to operate pumps for several days.
- Store drinking water in clean bathtubs and in various containers. Water service may be interrupted.
- Keep a stock of food that requires little cooking and no refrigeration; electric power may be interrupted.
- Keep first aid supplies on hand.
- Have a battery-powered portable radio, emergency cooking equipment, and flashlights in working order.
Always:-
- Stay informed about the flood by listening to commercial radio and television for the latest flash flood/flood warnings.
The rule for being safe in a flooding situation is simple:
- Head for Higher Ground and stay away from flood waters.
Disaster Planning
Families should be prepared for all hazards that affect their area. Each family is advised to develop a family disaster plan.
- Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere at work, at school, or in the car.
- How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe?
- Disasters may force you to evacuate your neighbourhood or confine you to your home.
- What would you do if basic services water, gas, electricity or telephones were cut off?
The Disaster Plan
A disaster plan should address all types of disasters:
1. Gather information about hazards. Contact your local State Emergency Service (Ipswich) office. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond.
Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans.
2. Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot outside your home for an emergency, such as fire, and a place away from your neighbourhood in case you can't return home. Choose an out of town friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate.
3. Implement your plan.
(1) Have emergency telephone numbers by phones;
(2) Install safety features in your house, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers;
(3) Inspect your home for potential hazards (such as items that can move, fall, break, or catch fire) and correct them;
(4) Have your family learn basic safety measures, such as CPR and first aid; how to use a fire extinguisher; and how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home;
(5) Teach children how and when to call 000 (Australia) or your local Emergency Medical Services number;
(6) Keep enough supplies in your home to meet your needs for at least three days. (disaster supply kit)
(7) Arrangements for pets or other animals;
(8) Know evacuation routes and sites.
4. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need in case of an evacuation. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers, such as backpacks or duffle bags. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Keep a smaller disaster supplies kit in the trunk of your car.
When you receive a flood warning
- Act on Flood Warnings
- If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
- Listen to your local radio/TV for further information.
- Check that your neighbours know of the warning.
- Stack furniture and possessions above likely flood level, on beds and in roof (electrical items on top)
- Move garbage, chemicals, poisons, to a high place.
- Secure object that could float and cause damage.
- Protect/relocate valuable stock and equipment.
- If on the land, move livestock to high ground.
- Check your car and fill it with fuel.
- Check emergency kit and fresh water stocks.
A disaster supplies kit should include:
- A first aid kit including prescription and non-prescription medications
- A 3-day supply of canned or non-perishable foods and can opener
- At least 12 litres (3 gallons) of water per person (4 litres (1 gallon) of water/person for at least 3 days)
- Protective clothing & rain wear
- A battery-powered radio, torch and extra batteries
- Any special items required for family members with special need such as infants, the elderly or disabled
- One change of clothing and footwear per person
- One blanket or sleeping bag per person
- Emergency tools (hammer, screwdriver, knife, shifting spanner, etc)
- An extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash
- Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members.
- Storage and location of valuable documents, such as in a safety deposit box
Practice and maintain your plan.
- Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules.
- Conduct drills.
- Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
- Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every six months.
During and after a flood
If you remain in your home, or when you return, take these precautions:
- Keep your emergency kit safe and dry.
- Do not eat food which has been in contact with flood water and even boil all tap water until supplies have been declared safe.
- Don't use gas or electrical appliances which have been flood-affected, until they have been safety-checked.
- Beware of snakes and spiders which may move to drier areas in your house.
- Avoid wading, even in shallow water, as it may be contaminated - if you must enter shallow flood water, wear solid shoes and check depth with a stick.
- Check with appropriate authorities (eg in Queensland ring RACQ) for safe routes before driving anywhere and don't enter water without checking depth and current.
- Keep listening to your local radio and TV station and heed all warnings and advice.
- Listen to local radio or television stations for information when flood conditions are present.
During and after a flood you will need:
- A portable radio and torch with fresh batteries.
- Candles and water proof matches.
- Reasonable stocks of fresh water and tinned food.
- A first aid kit and basic first aid knowledge.
- Good supplies of essential medication.
- Strong shoes and rubber gloves.
- A waterproof bag for clothing and valuables.
- Your emergency contact numbers
During the flood:
- Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.
- If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, STOP! Turn around and go another way.
- Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious.
- The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
- Children should NEVER play around high water, storm drains, viaducts, or gullies.
If you need to evacuate
You may be advised to evacuate by local authorities, but if you leave of your own accord, tell police or State/Territory Emergency Service (S/TES) and your neighbours. In either case, take the following actions:
- Empty freezers and refrigerators leaving doors open (to avoid floating and subsequent damage).
- Collect and secure your personal valuables, papers, money, photo albums and family mementos.
- Turn off power, gas, water, and take you emergency kit.
Floods and Cars
Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are motor vehicle related!
In your car:
- Look out for flooding at highway dips, bridges, and low areas.
When a vehicle stalls in the water, the water's momentum is transferred to the car.
For each 30cm (1 foot) the water rises, 250kgs of lateral force are applied to the car.
But the biggest factor is buoyancy. For each 30cm (1 foot) the water rises up the side of the car, the car displaces 750kgs of water. In effect, the car weighs 750kgs less for each 30cm (1 foot) the water rises.
60cm (2 feet) of water will carry away most automobiles.
- If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. Never drive through flooded roadways!
- If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember, it's better to be wet than dead!
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognise flood dangers.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
After the flood:
- Do not visit disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
- If fresh food has come in contact with flood waters, throw it out.
- Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking. If in doubt, call your local council health department.
- Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital.
- If you have to leave your home your local State Emergency Service will direct you to a Welfare Centre where food, clothing, shelter, and first aid are available.
- Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.
- Use battery torches not lanterns or matches, to examine buildings. Flammable may be inside.
- Report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities.
Health Concerns
Floods . . . Health and Safety Issues
Flooding not only causes considerable damage, but also creates conditions leading to disease, injury and psychosocial problems. The following guide provides basic information for pre-flood planning and preventing flood-associated conditions.
Infectious Diseases
Major outbreaks of infectious diseases are uncommon after disasters in industrialised countries.
The most likely diseases to occur due to flooding are diarrhoeal and gastrointestinal diseases caused by contaminated water and vector-borne diseases due toincreased mosquito breeding habitats.
There is also an increased risk of tetanus due to flood-related injuries and exposure to flood water. Increases in respiratory diseases associated with growth of moulds and fungi also have occurred after flooding.
Diarrhoeal/gastrointestinal diseases
Gastrointestinal diseases may be caused by a variety of micro organisms associated with drinking contaminated water, eating contaminated food or failure to wash hands properly after exposure to flood waters. The following recommendations are provided to help prevent gastrointestinal illnesses.
- Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water after they have been in contact with flood waters. If possible, gloves should be worn, especially when cleaning up after the flood.
- Make sure water is safe before drinking, washing dishes, brushing teeth, making ice or preparing food. Use bottled water or treat the water. The following methods should be used to make water safe for use.
- Bring water to a rolling boil water and continue to boil for at least 1 minute,
- Ensure food items are safe
- A freezer will keep foods safe for 24 to 48 hours after electricity is discontinued if the door remains closed. Food should be discarded if electricity remains off longer than 48 hours or if there is doubt about how long the foods may have been above 40° F. (4° C)
- Dry ice can be used if electrical power will be cut off. A 25kg block of dry ice will keep food safe for approximately 2 days in an 18-cubic foot freezer. To avoid burns, be sure to wear gloves or use tongs when handling dry ice. Wrap dry ice in paper and separate it from direct contact with food.
- Foods in paper, cardboard or any container which has been opened should be discarded after contact with floodwaters.
- Canned foods can be used if the cans are undamaged. Cans should be washed in a bleach solution (1/4 cup bleach in 1 gallon of water) for at least one minute and then dried. Any can that is damaged, pitted or otherwise compromised should be discarded.
- Home-canned items should generally be discarded since it is difficult to determine if the seal has been broken. If it is certain that water has not reached the jar top, the food may be used after the jar is sanitised.
- Root and garden vegetables should be discarded.
"When in doubt, throw it out."
Mosquito-borne diseases
Prevention of mosquito-borne encephalitis involves eliminating breeding areas, using larvicides and adulticides under high threat conditions. Local vector control agencies and will coordinate mosquito trapping and identification this summer. Surveillance programs will provide valuable information about the extent of disease reservoirs and presence of disease-causing viruses. This information will be used to notify the public about the potential disease threat and implementation of preventive measures.
You also can help protect yourself from mosquito-borne diseases by:
- Eliminating insect environments and breeding sites around your home.
- Keeping insects out of the house by making sure screens are in good condition and by using air-conditioning.
- Using insect repellents and decreasing outside activities when mosquitoes are most active, usually during dusk and dawn.
Tetanus
Tetanus occurs when the tetanus bacteria enters through an opening in the skin such as a wound. Because there is an increased chance you might experience a wound when dealing with flood conditions, especially during clean-up, it is important that tetanus immunisations are up-to-date. Tetanus boosters are required every 10 years.
If an injury causes an open wound, a physician should be consulted. If it has been 5 years or longer since the last tetanus booster, another booster generally is recommended. To get a tetanus booster, contact your physician or local health department.
Respiratory Illnesses
Respiratory illnesses can occur from bacteria and fungi resulting from flooding. Although most illnesses are mild, some people can experience severe respiratory illnesses. Prompt and adequate clean-up procedures are needed to reduce and prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Respiratory protection may be necessary when initially returning home and during clean-up. Consult an expert to ensure that an appropriate type of respirator is used.
Your physician can determine if you have any medical conditions which might prevent you from using a respirator or assisting with clean-up activities.
Injuries
Injuries are likely to occur during floods.
Some common-sense methods to prevent injuries include:
- Do not swim or wade in flood waters.
- Do not attempt to cross swift-flowing water or water of unknown depth, even in a vehicle.
- Avoid downed power lines.
- Be wary of stray and wild animals displaced by the flood.
- Do not return to your home or business until authorities give approval.
- Wear protective gear such as boots, gloves and helmets when entering a recently flooded building.
- Make sure the building is structurally safe before entering. Look for buckling walls and sagging ceilings. Look before you step.
- Use battery-powered flashlights or lanterns when returning to your home. To avoid explosions from undetected gases, do not use anything with an open flame. If you notice a gas-like smell, vacate the building and contact your local utility company.
- Make sure the electrical power is turned off before entering a building. Use a dry, wooden stick to turn off the main breaker switch.
- Do not operate electrical equipment when standing in water.
- Do not operate gas-powered equipment indoors.
"When in doubt, seek an expert."
Psychosocial Problems
Stress associated with displacement, damage and destruction of homes and personal belongings is a major concern. Be aware of the signs of stress and anxiety in yourself, friends and family members. Getting sufficient rest and nutrition, discussing problems and establishing a manageable schedule for clean-up and rebuilding will help reduce stress. Assistance and counselling is available from various agencies. If the situation becomes unmanageable, seek professional help.
Flood Cleanup
Returning Home and Cleaning Up
Once flood waters have receded and it is safe to return home, cleaning-up and drying out should be your top priorities. Obviously, food items will need to be evaluated and handled as previously described.
The following information provides general guidelines for cleaning up:
- Wear protective clothing such as gloves, boots, etc.
- Follow label directions for all the chemicals and cleaning products you use.
- Get fresh air moving through the house by opening doors and windows, weather permitting.
- Lower the humidity by using fans, dehumidifiers and desiccants.
- Remove as much mud as possible.
- Clean heating and air conditioning ducts by hosing and washing. Use a disinfectant such as a quaternary, phenolic or pine oil base.
- Clean one room at a time. Recommended cleaners include non-sudsing household cleaners or laundry soap. In addition to commercial disinfectants, household bleach also can be used as a disinfectant. Commercial mildew removers, washing soda, trisodium phosphate or chlorine bleach can be used to be remove moulds and mildew.
- Do not mix bleach with other chemical products.
- Wash hard surfaces with household cleaner.
- Wash clothing in a disinfecting solution. Follow the product and washing instructions to prevent damage.
- Promptly wipe off and clean "mildewy" items. Upholstered furniture should be cleaned with a suds-producing cleaner. Diluted alcohol (1 cup rubbing or denatured alcohol with 1 cup water) may be used to wipe off the surfaces. Dry quickly. Drying is hastened by ventilation and fans.
- Wipe down books and other paper products. Stand them on end with the pages spread out and then stack and press to keep them from wrinkling. Alternate opening and stacking until they are completely dry. Talcum powder or corn starch may be used to help absorb moisture. Paper products also may be frozen after rinsing until you have time to clean them.
- Discard items that cannot be adequately or safely cleaned.
Prepare for Cleanup
Remove Standing Water
Standing water is a breeding ground for micro organisms, which can become airborne and be inhaled.
Where floodwater contains sewage or decaying animal carcasses, infectious disease is of concern. Even when flooding is due to rain water, the growth of micro organisms can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. For these health reasons, and to lessen structural damage, all standing water should be removed as quickly as possible.
Dry Out Your Home
Excess moisture in the home is an indoor air quality concern for three reasons:
- Micro organisms brought into the home during flooding may present a health hazard. These organisms can penetrate deep into soaked, porous materials and later be released into air or water. Coming in contact with air or water that contains these organisms can make you sick.
- High humidity and moist materials provide ideal environments for the excessive growth of micro organisms that are always present in the home.
This may result in additional health concerns such as allergic reactions.
- Long term increases in humidity in the home can also foster the growth of dust mites. Dust mites are a major cause of allergic reactions and asthma.
Be patient. The drying out process could take several weeks, and growth of micro organisms will continue as long as humidity is high. If the house is not dried out properly, a musty odour, signifying growth of micro organisms, can remain long after the flood.
Remove Wet Materials
It can be difficult to throw away items in a home, particularly those with sentimental value. However, keeping certain items that were soaked by water may be unhealthy.
Some materials tend to absorb and keep water more than others.
As a general rule: Materials that are wet and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried should be discarded, as they can remain a source of microbial growth.
A suggestion is that you may be able to dry out and save certain building materials (for example, wallboard, fibreglass insulation, and wall-to-wall carpeting that were soaked only with clean rain water; and plaster).
You may, however, want to consider removing and replacing them to avoid indoor air quality problems. Because they take a long time to dry, they may be a source of microbial growth
In addition, fibreboard, fibrous insulation, and disposable filters should be replaced, if they are present in your heating and air conditioning system and contacted water. (If a filter was designed to be cleaned with water and was in contact with clean rain water only, ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned before reinstalling.)
Avoiding Indoor Air Quality Problems
During a flood cleanup, the indoor air quality in your home or office may appear to be the least of your problems. However, failure to remove contaminated materials and to reduce moisture and humidity can present serious long-term health risks. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for micro organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and mould. They can cause disease, trigger allergic reactions, and continue to damage materials long after the flood.
Problems caused by microbial growth, as well as other potential effects of flooding, on long-term indoor air quality and the steps you can take to lessen these effects
is discussed here.
Although the information contained here emphasises residential flood cleanup, it is also applicable to other types of buildings.
Avoid Problems from the Use of Cleaners and Disinfectants
The cleanup process involves thorough washing and disinfecting of the walls, floors, closets, shelves, and contents of the house.
In most cases, common household cleaning products and disinfectants are used for this task. It is also suggested the use of disinfectants and sanitisers on the duct work for the heating and air conditioning system, if it has been flooded.
Disinfectants and sanitisers contain toxic substances.
The ability of chemicals in other household products used for cleaning to cause health effects varies greatly, from those with no known health effect to those that are highly toxic. Read and follow label instructions carefully, and provide fresh air by opening windows and doors.
If it is safe for you to use electricity and the home is dry, use fans both during and after the use of disinfecting, cleaning, and sanitising products.
Be careful about mixing household cleaners and disinfectants together. Check labels for cautions on this. Mixing certain types of products can produce toxic fumes and result in injury and even death.
Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless gas that can be lethal at high levels. Carbon monoxide levels can build up rapidly if certain types of combustion devices (for example, petrol powered generators, camp stoves and lanterns, or charcoal-burning devices) are used indoors. Do not use combustion devices designed for outdoor use indoors.
Avoid Problems from Airborne Asbestos and Lead Dust
Asbestos
Elevated concentrations of airborne asbestos can occur if asbestos-containing materials present in the home are disturbed. Airborne asbestos can cause lung cancer and mesothelioma, a cancer of the chest and abdominal linings. If you know or suspect that your home contains asbestos.
In Queensland contact State Health. Elsewhere contact appropriate authorities.
Lead
Lead is a highly toxic metal which produces a range of adverse health effects, particularly in young children. Disturbance or removal of materials containing lead-based paint may result in elevated concentration of lead dust in the air. If you know or suspect that your home contains lead-based paint, information on steps you should take to avoid exposure.
In Queensland contact State Health. Elsewhere contact appropriate authorities.
Resources
During disaster conditions, various federal, state and local agencies are able to provide assistance. Information about assistance agencies and organisations is provided by local radio, television and newspapers.
The ABC&D of Your Next Flood
A is for ASK
You may be surprised to discover that floods may have occurred where you are now living. We know that high flood levels occurred throughout Australia before records commenced - and in the last 125 years there have been scores of devastating floods. Action Step Number 1 is to ASK. Start with your Local Government.
The questions to ask are:
- In which years were local floods recorded?
- How high did they rise, and how quickly?
- How long did they last?
- Is there a local flood evacuation plan?
- What official river height means your house will be flooded?
- What flood advice will be given by local officials in addition to those given by the Bureau of Meteorology?
- Where is the catchment area in which rainfall will cause floods near your house?
- Some Councils have produced "Flood Plain Maps" which will tell you the danger areas based on previous water movements.
These are excellent guides - but you also need to ask what recent alterations or developments have been made upstream and in your area which will affect river flow.
If you find there's a lack of preparedness in your area - and history shows you could be flooded - it is timely to consult with representatives of your Local Government.
B is for Before
If it is possible that you could be flooded, you shouldn't wait for a flood to learn what to do. NOW, before the emergency, is the time to prepare - firstly by knowing how the Flood Warning System works.
The Bureau of Meteorology issues forecasts and warnings after considering the information obtained from a wide variety of sources.
The Bureau of Meteorology uses the following flood terms, and it could be important to know what they mean to you, your house, and the roads in your area.
Minor Flooding - causes inconvenience, closing of minor roads and low level bridges.
Moderate Flooding - low lying areas are inundated requiring removal of stock, equipment, and evacuation of isolated homes. Main traffic bridges may be covered.
Major Flooding - higher areas are inundated with isolation of towns and properties, causing extensive damage.
Local Flooding - used where intense rainfall could be expected to cause high run-off in restricted area but would not lead to significant rises in main streams.
Significant River Rises - used when it is not certain that initial flood levels will be exceeded in main streams, but when appreciable river rises are expected. This term should alert landholders of possible need to remove pumps and irrigation equipment, and plan for a stock removal.
C is for Concern
Your local counter-disaster authorities will relate the Bureau's forecasts and warnings to your particular locality, issuing information on river heights and the conditions of roads in the area - and advise on movement and evacuation over local TV and radio stations.
It is your responsibility to yourself, your family and your community to act sensibly on the advice and warnings.
There are ways you can concern yourself, to take precautions when an emergency appears possible.
- Ensure your transistor radio is working, and has fresh batteries (it could be your only link with the news if power goes off)
- In one area of the house known to the whole family gather a supply of appropriate clothing, tinned food, water containers, emergency lighting (candles, torches), first aid kit and medicines - enough for 2-3 days at least.
- If your property could be isolated by floodwaters, having your property name painted on the roof will assist those trying to help you.
- Ask the representative of your Local Government for details of the Community Disaster Plan - warning systems, action to reduce losses, evacuation, welfare, ways in which you can help.
D is for Don't
If a flood emergency occurs, panic often causes people to forget simple rules. Remember that there could be heavy rain, closedroads, high winds, power blackouts and other problems, so your family should be reminded from time to time of these
Important Don't rules:
- Don't ignore warnings and advice - they are for the good of everybody
- Don't enter floodwater, on foot or in a car - you could be swept away
- Don't use a boat for sightseeing - the wash causes unnecessary damage
- Don't visit disaster areas - unnecessary people cause unnecessary damage
- Don't drink floodwater - you could become seriously ill
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