Evacuation

You may be told to leave your home by local authorities or decide to leave due to a flood.

If you do evacuate, tell police or emergency service workers and your neighbours.

You should leave early rather than wait for water to rise eg - leave before the water is near your door step.

Before you leave you should:

• empty freezers and refrigerators and leave their doors open - or they may float and cause damage
• collect and secure your personal valuables including important papers, money and photos
• turn off the power, gas, and water
• pack your emergency kit
• place a sandbag over low drains and in the toilet to prevent back-flow of sewage into your home
• contact your insurance company, if you have one
• secure the property.

If you cannot take your pets when you evacuate, do not leave them locked inside the house. Pets should be left outside and untethered with a supply of dry food in a high and accessible location if possible.

Find out more about animals in emergencies.