Flood health and safety
Reconnecting electricity and water
Contact phone numbers to report electricity and water outages and faults.
Emergency services and safety
For emergency contacts, assistance, response services, first aid, and utilities contacts. Find out about disasters, safety, your community, and the role of local government in a disaster.
Returning to affected homes and buildings after flood
Information and advice about cleaning up buildings and homes to make them safe after flood. In most cases people will want to return to their homes as soon as possible after a disaster and undertake repairs to their home, but for your safety you should wait until hazards have been cleared, basic needs are available and the site is declared safe.
Pools and water tanks after a flood
Find out how to restore your pool, spa or water tank to make it safe after a flood.
Home and property repairs after a flood
Advice from the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) for people who need to repair or rebuild homes, repaid or replace water infrastructure, remove debris or clear vegetation following a natural disaster.
Bacterial infections after a flood
The risk of contracting diseases increases after coming into contact with flood water. Find out about common bacterial infections after flood including Melioidosis, Leptospirosis, and Q Fever, and how to take precautions.
Floodwater contamination
Floodwater is often contaminated by sewage from overflowing sewerage or septic systems, and by agricultural or industrial wastes and chemicals. Learn about the risks and how to avoid infection.
Food and drinking water
Following an emergency such as a flood, there is a danger that some food and water in your house may not be safe to consume especially if power has been cut or if food has been in contact with contaminated floodwater. Find out how to stay safe.
Mould after a flood
After a flood, the heat, humidity and water can all cause mould to grow. Breathing in, eating, drinking or touching mould can cause health problems, especially for people with asthma, sensitivities or allergies. Learn how to reduce your risk and stop or minimise mould growth.
Using alternative fuel and electricity generation safely during power outages
For people impacted by the floods it's important to stay healthy as you return home. When power outages occur people sometimes use alternative sources of fuel or electricity generation for cooking, lighting, heating or power. Portable generators can allow some normal activities to continue; however, it is important to use them carefully.
Asbestos after a flood
Information for home renovators, businesses and volunteers who are involved with a clean up and recovery of buildings damaged by floods, storms and other natural disasters. Employers and workers involved in the flood and storm recovery efforts must still remember their obligations under Queensland's health and safety laws.
Drugs and poison disposal after a flood
After a disaster, drugs, poisons or medicines may be unsafe to use, due to contact with contaminated floodwater, damage to the packaging, exposure to temperatures, light or humidity. Find out how to correctly dispose of drugs and poisons following a disaster.
Managing stress after a flood
Learn how to recognise common reactions to a disaster, how to take care of yourself and overcome stress, and find out who to contact for help.
Family relationships after a flood
Learn how to recognise common reactions to a disaster, how to take care of yourself and overcome stress, and find out who to contact for help.
Support groups after a flood
Not-for-profit organisations provide post-disaster emotional support, crisis hotlines and other help to the community.
Talking to children about floods
Floods can be really scary, especially for young children. If you need help talking to your kids about what’s going on around them, try reading Birdie and the Flood. It’s a free online picture book for young children about recovery from floods and is designed to support the mental health and emotional wellbeing of young children, parents and families.
Mosquitos after a flood
Mosquito numbers and black flies can increase after floods or heavy rain. Find practical tips for preventing and treating bites from mosquitoes.
Black flies after a flood
The number of black flies (genus Austrosimulium) can increase following a flood or heavy rain, particularly in inland areas. While black flies do not transmit disease, allergic reactions and bacterial skin infections may occur from bites and scratching the bites. Find practical tips for preventing and treating bites from black flies.