Flood

Be prepared:

• One in six UK properties is at risk from flooding. Here's how to be ready for it
• Assess your risk from river flooding by visiting https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/environment-agency or calling the Agency's Floodline on 0345 988 1188
• If you're at risk, register by phone or online for the Agency's free flood warning service. Keep the Floodline number and quick dial code handy for quick updates
• Know the flood warning codes and what they mean - see https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/environment-agency
• Check your insurance to confirm you're covered, and for the right amount
• Know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water. If in doubt, consult your supplier
• Put stickers on taps and switches you need to turn off, so it's easier to remember - and quicker
• Think about pets, cars, furniture, electrical equipment and garden furniture
• Download a household flood plan template from https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/flooding-planning-managing-and-recovering-from-a-flood
• Prepare an emergency 'grab bag' to carry basic essentials with you
• If you're at risk, buy flood protection equipment in advance. See www.floodforum.org.uk

If flooding happens:

• Tune in to your local radio station or call Floodline for updates
• Report property flooding or river blockages to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60
• If safe to do so, turn off gas, electricity and water mains before water enters your home
• Put plugs in sinks and baths and weigh them down
• Move your family and pets to a higher position with a means of escape
• Remember to take your emergency 'grab bag'
• Don't touch sources of electricity when standing in water
• Never drive through flood water. Eighty per cent of flood deaths occur in vehicles
• If there's raw sewage in your property, keep out. See if you can stay elsewhere (see Have emergency friends) until it's been cleansed

After a flood:

• Find out if it's safe to return to your property by checking the media and local authority website
• Check falling river levels via Floodline and the Environment Agency website
• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their advice
• If you can get in to your property, take photographs for evidence
• Protect against contamination - always wear waterproof outerwear, Wellingtons and gloves
• Have your electricity supply checked before switching back on
• Have your gas or oil central heating checked by a qualified person
• Your local council may provide help for clearing flood damaged household items and protecting against further flooding (ie: sandbags)
• For further, detailed advice on what to do before, during and after a flood, check the Environment Agency website