Flooding advice

In the event of flooding:

DO…

• Stay calm.
• Check that neighbours know about any flood warnings issued.
• Switch off gas, water and electricity.
• Move people and animals to a place of safety. Provide a litter tray for pets and have pet carriers available if possible.
• Unplug electrical items and store them upstairs if possible. For larger appliances such as fridge/freezer it may be necessary to raise them on bricks.
• If you can, move furniture, rugs, valuables or sentimental items upstairs
• Have a supply of drinking water in clean bottles or similar containers.
• Fill the bath and buckets with water for washing etc.
• Listen to the local radio for up to date news on the flood.
• Have spare clothes, Wellingtons, waterproofs, torch, batteries, radio and food readily available.
• If you need to be evacuated because of severe flooding or damage, contact the Police or dial 999.
• REMEMBER to lock up if you leave your property.
• If flooding traps you, stay by a window and try to attract attention
• If possible, cover doors, windows and airbricks with either plywood, sandbags or metal sheeting.
• If using sandbags, put a large sheet of heavy-duty plastic between them and the wall of your house. This makes a better defence than sandbags alone. Do not forget that water will come through the airbricks if they are not protected.

DON'T…

• Throw rubbish into watercourses or leave debris on the banks - it can add to the flooding problem.
• Try to walk or drive through flood water, there may be hazards you can't see such as raised manhole covers.
• Use domestic water supply until you are advised it is safe to drink.
• Use the flood water for drinking, food preparation or washing or bathing - the water will be contaminated with sewage and other pollution.
• Use any foodstuffs that have been in contact with flood water.
• Do not try to use gas or electricity

Practical advice on what to do to stay safe in during a flood is available to download.