Preparing for a flood means much more than simply checking tide times and weather forecasts. Along with ensuring your home is as flood-proof as possible, there are preparations you can make to help you cope if the worst should happen.
Make a plan
If you are moving into a new property, or you have just taken up residence, find out from the Environment Agency if your home is at risk and, if so, discover if you are eligible to receive flood warnings. This will give you an early warning, although it is still important to keep abreast of weather conditions and tide times yourself.
Keep a list of important contacts that you may need in the event of a flood somewhere safe, and make a list of the essential or important items you need to move in the event of a flood.
Ensure you know how to switch off things like your gas, electricity and water and prepare an emergency flood kit. This should include:
– Essential items such as important documents
– Any medication you need
– Waterproofs
– Rubber gloves
– A first aid kit
– Warm clothing
– Blankets
Make sure you put this somewhere convenient so that you can grab it quickly should the flood waters hit.
Act swiftly
If flooding is imminent:
– Fill saucepans and jugs with water
– Move important items upwards
– Switch off your utilities before any water arrives
– Put plugs in baths and sinks and weigh down with soil-filled bags
– Plug any inlet pipes with cloths or towels if you have not had non-return valves put in
– Most impotantly, ensure you and your family are safe.
Use your local radio station as a source of up-to-date information and listen to the advice you receive from the emergency services. If you are told that you must evacuate, follow the guidance that you are given.
