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Emergencies and your water supply
We are prepared for emergencies and have plans in place to protect our water supply. We aim to minimise disruption to our services, all year round – even in times of extreme heat, fire or flood.
Despite our preparation, we can't guarantee constant water pressure, uninterrupted water supplies or fully operational sewerage systems during an emergency.
Our water systems are designed to meet normal water demand. A large increase in water use, or damage to our infrastructure from an event such as a bushfire, can cause reduced water pressure – or even no water being supplied – to affected areas.
Be prepared for bushfire season. Make a survival plan, have other sources of water ready and know what to do in an emergency.
The CFA has some great resources, including the Fire Ready Kit to help you understand the risks on your property and be prepared in case of a bushfire.
Have another source of water
It is critically important to put aside some drinking water and to be ready with an alternative source of water in the event of a bushfire, in case there is an impact to your water supply.
Leave early
The CFA advises leaving early is the safest option to protect you and your family.
For home owners who choose to stay and defend their property, the CFA recommends at least 10,000 litres of water is available for emergencies.
Alternate water sources could include:
- a water tank specifically for firefighting purposes
- a swimming pool or dam
- multiple rubbish bins, wheelie bins, bathtubs, laundry troughs and 200 litre drums.
Pumping water
To draw water from an independent water supply, a petrol or diesel fire-fighting pump is needed.
Consult a pump specialist to determine the size of the pump and fittings needed. Hoses for use in the event of a bushfire should be able to reach all areas of your home.
Fire bans and ratings
Visit the CFA website to check for Total Fire Bans and Fire Ratings for Victoria. Our service area is located entirely in the West and South Gippsland Fire District.
Emergency telephone numbers
Emergency: 000
VicEmergency hotline: 1800 226 226
Wildlife rescue: 1300 094 535
State Emergency Service: (SES) 13 25 00
Vicroads road closure information: 13 11 70
Download the VicEmergency App via the App Store or Google Play
Bushfire and private water supplies
The water we supply to townships is treated to Safe Drinking Water Standards and is monitored on a daily basis. If you have a private drinking water supply, you should monitor your rainwater tanks and quality of drinking water for contamination due to airborne debris and ash.