It's the simple device that could save lives and millions of dollars during flood emergencies.

The DipStik continuously monitors water levels in flood-prone areas, sending alerts to the local council and State Emergency Service units when floodwater is detected.

A quarter of car owners say they have driven through floodwater, with 46 per cent of those saying they did not think it was dangerous, NRMA Insurance has found. Credit:Janie Barrett

As well as providing early flood warnings, it features a high-powered flashing beacon to alert motorists and members of the public to a flooded area or road.

The technology, being trialled by NRMA Insurance in partnership with the NSW SES, could be be put to the test in coming days, with heavy rain set to soak the coast.