Increased rainfall in the winter could put your home at risk of flooding. Although this is extremely unlikely, it’s important that you know what to do should this happen.
Taking these steps will keep you safe, and significantly reduce the risk of damage of your home and your possessions.
Indoors
- Turn off electricity, gas and mains water supplies.
- Move as many possessions as possible upstairs or into the loft.
- Smaller items should be removed from your home for safekeeping.
- Ensure that furniture that cannot be moved is tied down to prevent it from floating and damaging other belongings.
- Disconnect appliances connected by rigid pipes to the mains supply. This prevents the pipes from snapping if the appliances float off.
- Block sinks and baths with a weighed down plug as plugs can let in floodwater.
Outdoors
- Call our inhouse repairs team, as we may provide flood boards or sandbags. They can be used to cover any vents, doors, windows and air bricks to reduce the amount of water that gets in.
Do
- Keep extension cables out of water and wear rubber boots.
- Avoid enclosed areas which may not be ventilated and where hazardous fumes may build.
Call the National Grid immediately if you smell gas or suspect a leak, on 0800 111 999.
- Beware of rogue traders and cold callers who may try to exploit the aftermath of flood hit areas.
Don't
- Walk through floodwater, along river banks or cross river bridges if avoidable. As much as 15cm of fast-flowing water can knock you over and banks or river bridges may collapse in extreme situations.
- Let children play in flood water or with contaminated belongings.
- Re-enter your home unless you are sure it is safe to do so.
Helpful Links
The Environment Agency flood telephone helpline should be the first port of call for the most up-to-date advice for your area: 0845 988 1188.
You can also sign up for Floodline Warnings Direct by calling 0845 988 1188 or Typetalk 0845 602 6340.