Essential Flood Advice

It's important you react quickly but calmly once you've been warned of an imminent flood. The information below will help you plan ahead and reduce damage to your property. 

 

  • Turn off your water, gas and electricity supplies to prevent contamination or fire
  • Unplug all electrical items and move them upstairs to avoid water damage
  • Disconnect all appliances connected to pipes in case they move during flooding
  • Place sandbags around all doorways, airbricks and windows but make sure you leave adequate room for ventilation
  • Move your furniture upstairs. If some pieces are too large to carry, weigh them down to ensure they don't float around and cause further damage
  • Empty the contents of any chests of drawers or cupboards too heavy to move, into boxes and store upstairs
  • Items of sentimental value such as photos, jewellery or other valuables should be considered a priority as these cannot be replaced
  • Rugs and curtains also need to be moved upstairs or hung over curtain poles, above the water-level
  • Keep useful telephone numbers in a safe place, to contact for further flood information
  • Keep details of your insurance policy somewhere safe

Useful Links
Met Office  – weather warnings
Environment Agency  – offers a flood warning alert service by telephone and lots of practical advice
CIRIA -  advice on what to do if your home is flooded
CILA  – helpful leaflets on flood repair to download
Highways Agency  – latest traffic updates if you are planning to travel through affected areas
Health Protection Agency  – advice on reducing health risks from flooding
Local councils  – search for and contact your local council

Useful Telephone Numbers
Environment Agency Floodline - 0845 988 1188
Highways Agency Information Line - 08457 504030
Emergency services – 999
Remember:
- The Police co-ordinate emergency services and help with evacuation from flood areas
- The Fire Service is responsible for life saving, rescue and recovery. They will also help with pumping out floodwater, for which there may be a charge.

See our tips on what you can do to prevent flooding.