Preparing Scout Facilities for Flood and Severe Storm Events

Preparing Scout Facilities for Flood and Severe Storm Events

Introduction

Queensland is known for its diverse climate, but many areas are vulnerable to flooding, particularly during severe weather events. Scout facilities are often located in community parks or low-lying areas, making them more susceptible to flood risks.
The purpose of this guide is to help Scout Groups across Queensland ensure their facilities, youth members, and adult leaders remain safe, resilient, and prepared for severe storms and flooding.
Flooding can impact Scout Halls and campsites in several ways, including direct water damage to buildings, equipment, and supplies, as well as indirect disruptions to essential services such as power, communication, and transport.
By taking proactive measures, Scout Groups can minimize risks and ensure a quicker recovery after extreme weather events

Risk and Safety

Severe weather events, including floods and storms, can pose significant risks to Scout Groups. It is essential to understand these dangers and take proactive steps to ensure the safety of all members.

Key Risks During Floods and Storms:
  1. Drowning – Ensure youth members do not play in or near stormwater drains. These drains, which may be dry most of the year, can fill rapidly during heavy rain.
  2. Strong Currents – Never walk, drive, or swim in floodwaters. As little as 15 cm of moving water can knock a person off their feet.
  3. Electrocution – Stay clear of fallen powerlines and electrical wires. Water conducts electricity, increasing the risk of serious injury
  4. Contamination – Floodwaters can contain sewage, chemicals, and other hazardous materials. Anyone who comes into contact with floodwater should wash their hands and feet thoroughly with soap.
  5. Slipping Hazards – Be cautious when moving around wet or flooded areas. Slippery surfaces can lead to falls and injuries.
  6. Wildlife – Be aware that displaced and stressed wildlife may seek refuge in and around Scout facilities. Flooding affects their habitats too.

Scout Leader Responsibilities:

Scout Leaders should actively monitor weather alerts from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and local government agencies. If severe weather is forecast or conditions become unsafe, events and activities should be cancelled or postponed.
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In all situations, the safety of youth and adult members must take priority over property or scheduled activities.
By staying informed and prepared, Scout Groups can reduce risks and respond effectively to flood and storm events.

Understanding Your Flood Risk

Every Scout Group should be aware of their location’s flood history and the specific risks their Den faces. Understanding these risks will help determine the most appropriate preparedness measures.
Scout Dens and campsites may be affected by:
  1. Flash Flooding – This occurs when heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems, causing sudden and intense flooding. Flash floods can happen even in areas not traditionally considered flood-prone, making them particularly dangerous.
  2. Riverine Flooding – This occurs when rivers and creeks overflow due to prolonged rainfall or upstream water releases. Groups located near rivers or waterways should be aware of flood levels and historical data.
  3. Tidal or Storm Surge Flooding – Coastal Scout Groups should consider the impact of king tides, cyclones, and storm surges, which can cause significant flooding during extreme weather events.
What Scout Groups Can Do:
  1. Consult local council flood maps to assess your Den’s flood risk.
  2. Speak to long-standing community members or emergency services for historical flood data.
  3. Register for early warning alert services from local councils and the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) to receive real-time flood warnings.
  4. Review current insurance coverage, Scout Groups should be aware of what is covered under Scouts Queensland’s insurance policies in the event of a flood or severe storm. Some locations may have specific flood exclusions, meaning that additional risk management measures are required.
  5. Maintain an Up-to-Date Asset Register. A current asset register is crucial for flood preparedness. Keeping an inventory of furniture, equipment, and other valuable items can assist with insurance claims, loss assessments, and damage recovery.

Preparing Your Scout Den for Storms and Flooding

Severe weather events, including storms and flooding, can occur with little warning. To protect your Scout Den, equipment, and members, it is essential to prepare well in advance of storm season. Proactive maintenance and planning can help reduce damage, minimize disruptions, and ensure the safety of all members.
The following checklist provides key actions that all Scout Groups should take to prepare their Den for extreme weather events:

Preventive Maintenance

Proactive maintenance is key to ensuring Scout facilities remain safe and resilient during severe weather events. Many preventative measures cannot be completed at the last minute, as storms often develop quickly, leaving little time for preparation. By incorporating the following maintenance tasks into a Scout Group’s Facility Maintenance and Development Plan, Groups can reduce damage, improve safety, and enhance the long-term durability of their Scout Den and property
  1. Roof and Gutter Inspection – Engage a qualified professional, such as a plumber or roofer, to inspect your Den’s roof, gutters, downpipes, and stormwater management systems. Older roofs are more vulnerable to storm damage. The inspection should identify:
    1. Any compliance gaps
    2. Signs of uplift or movement
    3. Corrosion or rot in structural elements
  1. Clear Gutters and Downpipes – Remove leaves, dirt, and debris to prevent blockages and ensure proper water drainage during heavy rain.
  2. Tree Maintenance – Trim overhanging branches and seek advice from a qualified arborist about the health of trees near your Den. Weak or damaged trees may pose a risk during storms.
  3. Surface Drainage and Landscaping – Check that your property has adequate drainage to prevent erosion, water pooling, or ground subsidence that could impact structures.
  4. Secure Roof-Mounted Equipment – Inspect and repair aerials, whirlybirds, and solar panels to ensure they are securely fastened. Strong winds or flying debris can damage these items or cause them to become hazards. Check that roof ventilation openings are watertight to prevent rain from entering during extreme weather.
  5. Store important documents, equipment, and electronics above expected flood levels.
  6. Assemble an Emergency Kit – Ensure that a storm-ready kit is on hand in case of an unexpected weather event during Scout activities. The kit should include:
    1. First Aid Kit
    2. Torch with spare batteries
    3. List of emergency contact numbers (local emergency services, SES, BOM, and Scout leadership contacts)
    4. Basic toolkit (hammers, nails, rope, tarpaulin for temporary repairs)
    5. Battery-powered radio to tune into weather warnings

Emergency Preparedness

  1. Secure Loose Outdoor Items – secure any lose items arounds scout grounds, if required move inside to prevent them from being damaged or becoming projectiles in strong winds.
  2. Inside facilities – If facilities are at risk of flooding, move as many items as you can to a higher position, secure anything that could be knocked over and create a hazard in a storm surge. Put smaller electrical appliances up on tables and benchtops.
  3. Relocate high value items – if there is sufficient time and it is safe to do so, relocate high value portable assets to a safe location above any anticipated flood levels.
  4. Store Hazardous Materials Safely – Keep fuel, paints, and chemicals above potential flood levels to prevent contamination in case of flash flooding.
  5. Disconnect utilities, If appropriate, as recommended by Ergon Energy, and turn off your home’s power at the switchboard. Noting that fridges and freezers will need to be emptied of any perishable items.
  6. Monitor Weather Warnings – Tune into local radio, TV stations, and online sources for storm and flood updates. Register for Early Warning Alert Services through your local council or the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM).

Plan for Flood Resilience Improvements

To reduce future flood risks, Scout Groups should incorporate long-term flood resilience strategies into their Facility Maintenance and Development Plan. These strategies can help prevent water damage and improve the safety of Scout facilities.

Flood Resilience Measures:
  1. Install Flood-Resistant Materials
    1. Consider water-resistant flooring, treated timber, and metal cabinetry that can withstand flood exposure.
    2. Use elevated electrical fittings to minimize damage from rising water levels.
  2. Raise Critical Equipment Above Flood Levels
    1. Store camping gear, electronics, and important records on elevated shelves or in waterproof containers.
    2. Relocate power points, fuse boxes, air conditioning plant and electrical wiring higher up walls to prevent water damage.
  3. Improve Drainage Systems Around the Den
    1. Ensure downpipes and gutters are clear to prevent water pooling.
    2. Install gravel beds, drainage channels, or water diversion barriers to redirect excess rainwater away from structures.
  4. Seek advice from local council or flood engineers to implement effective drainage solutions.

Conclusion 

Understanding and preparing for flood risks is a key responsibility for all Scout Groups. By taking proactive steps to assess flood risks, develop emergency plans, maintain assets, and improve flood resilience, Scout Groups can protect their facilities and ensure the safety of youth members, leaders, and volunteers.
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Scouting is about being prepared, and being prepared for floods or for Severe Storm Events is no exception.

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