FAQ’S
Everything you need to know about using Stop Flood bags with confidence.
Why Stop Flood bags when there are already accessible traditional sandbags?
Stop Flood bags are designed to complement traditional sandbag systems, not replace them. They strengthen existing response frameworks by providing an additional rapid-deployment option. They are particularly effective for residents who cannot physically collect or lift sand-filled sandbags during flash-flooding events where time is limited.
What about cost?
Cost should be assessed holistically. Traditional sandbag programs involve labour, transport, sand supply logistics, manual-handling risks, and contaminated waste disposal. Stop Flood reduces surge demand, lowers injury risk, simplifies logistics, and supports pre-positioned preparedness, which may reduce overall operational costs during peak events.
Does this replace sandbags?
No. Stop Flood bags complement traditional sandbag systems. They provide a faster, lightweight alternative in certain scenarios — particularly for rapid-response situations and vulnerable or mobility-limited residents.
What about storage?
Stop Flood bags have a 10-year shelf life when stored correctly: keep them dry, in a cool space, and in their original sealed vacuum-packed plastic bags. This enables councils and emergency services to pre-position stock in high-risk areas and supports proactive preparedness planning.
What if the water is salt water?
Stop Flood bags activate in fresh water, floodwater, and brackish water. They do not activate in salt water. This limitation is clearly defined to ensure appropriate deployment planning.
Do I need to pre-activate the Stop Flood Bag?
It is recommended that you partially activate your bags so that they do not float or blow away while waiting for floodwaters to rise. If building a retaining wall is required, pre-soaking and stacking is definitely recommended.
How quickly does it activate?
Stop Flood bags activate within approximately 3–5 minutes upon contact with floodwater or brackish water, allowing rapid barrier formation in emergency conditions.
Is it reusable?
No. A Stop Flood bag is single-use due to contamination regulations. After deployment in flood conditions, it should be disposed of in accordance with local waste guidelines.
Are they hazardous?
Stop Flood bag contents are environmentally safe, non-polluting, and not considered hazardous. However, floodwater coming into contact with Stop Flood bags may contaminate them with hazardous substances.
What happens after use?
The bags can be disposed of in general waste. Their contents are biodegradable, so they can be placed in your garden, reducing the environmental burden associated with contaminated sand disposal.
Who is this most suitable for?
Stop Flood is suitable for everybody potentially impacted by rising floodwaters: emergency services supporting communities in times of crisis and flash flooding, council preparedness programs, and SES rapid-response units. It is particularly beneficial for elderly or mobility-limited residents and single-person households, as it avoids lifting heavy sandbags.
How does this reduce pressure on councils and SES?
Stop Flood reduces surge demand at sandbag depots, lowers manual-handling strain on volunteers, and reduces last-minute logistical pressure during peak flood events.
Is there any residue when the bag activates?
Stop Flood bags contain a super absorbent polymer that expands when activated by water. In some cases, a small amount of clear or slightly cloudy gel-like residue may appear on the exterior of the bag. This substance may feel slightly slippery or slimy to the touch. It is non-toxic and poses no harm to people, pets, or the environment. The residue is simply hydrated polymer and can be rinsed away with water if required.