If your area is subject to flooding please make sure you and your family read the following advice, it  could help save your property or life.  

Know your local flood history and plan

Ask us or the State 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.  

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 the 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 higher ground 
• check your car and fill it with fuel 
• check emergency kit and fresh water stocks  

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 SES 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 
• IMPORTANT: whether you leave or stay, place a sandbag in the toilet bowl to prevent back-flow of sewage into your home 

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.  boil all tap water before use until supplies have been declared safe
• do not 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 the depth with a stick 
• check with the 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 warning and advice 

Reporting drainage issues 

Urgent drainage issues can be lodged with us 24 hours a day simply by calling 1300 BCOAST (226 278). 

Flooding on major roads

If there is flooding anywhere on the main roads (i.e. Bass Highway or the Phillip Island Tourist Rd) then affected residents should call VicRoads on 13 11 70.

If you don't have an emergency kit already - see the Emergency Kit information on this website for assistance.