Helping Communities Stay Safe in Emergencies

When floods or bushfires strike, people often face difficult decisions—especially when it comes to evacuating safely. One of the most dangerous choices is whether to drive through hazardous conditions. Sara Fazeli, a PhD researcher, has been studying why people make these decisions and how we can help them make safer ones.

Her research looked at real-life driving behaviour during emergencies, including videos people posted online while driving through floodwaters or bushfire zones. She also surveyed hundreds of Australians to understand how they perceive risk and what influences their choices. The results were eye-opening: younger drivers, men, and newer migrants tended to rate the risks lower than other groups, and often relied too heavily on their vehicles or what others were doing around them.

Sara’s work helps emergency services and local councils create better safety messages and preparedness programs. For example, her findings show that seeing others drive through floodwaters can falsely reassure people that it’s safe—when it’s not. Her research also highlights the need for clearer communication about vehicle limitations and the real risks involved.

Tips for Safe Evacuation:

• Never drive through floodwaters—just 15 cm of moving water can sweep away a small car.
• Know your local evacuation routes and shelter locations in advance.
• Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like water, medication, and a phone charger.
• Follow official warnings and avoid relying on social media for real-time decisions.
• If unsure, turn around and find a safer route—your life is worth more than the risk.

By turning data into practical advice, Sara’s research supports safer decision-making during disasters. It encourages tailored education, community workshops, and tools like mobile apps to help people prepare before emergencies happen. Her work ensures that safety messages reach the right people in the right way—making a real difference in how communities respond and recover.