The Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) has released an updated plan to ensure the State’s arrangements for managing flood events are clearly outlined and that the latest changes in practices are actioned in the event of flooding.
VICSES said the plan, State Emergency Response Plan (SERP) Flood Sub-plan Edition 2, was part of its Spring Preparedness activities.
“As outlined within the plan, shared responsibility is essential including the need for the Victorian community to be prepared,” VICSES said.
“The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) seasonal rainfall outlook for October -December indicates a high likelihood to exceed the median rainfall across the state with an increased likelihood (greater than 80 per cent chance) across Hume, Loddon Mallee, and Grampians regions in particular,” it said.
VICSES said the updated Plan included provision of current and accurate information related to VICSES changes in organisation, Agency roles and responsibilities; multi-Agency and cross border arrangements; as well as operational response in a complex and multi-hazard environment.
The Agency urged people to be prepared in the event of flood activity and has launched a new campaign to encourage Victorians to Plan ahead, Bag it, Block it, Lift it and Leave.
“Know what to do if your home is being threatened by major flooding,” it said.
“Bag it – by laying sandbags where water may get into your home; Block it – by covering your toilet and drains to prevent back-flow; Lift it and Leave – by shifting valuables onto tables and benchtops, and leaving early,” VICSES said.
The Agency’s 47-page SERP Flood Sub-Plan can be accessed at this PS News link.
