Things to do before a flood
  • Be aware of the flooding risk to your property;
  • Make sure your property and it's contents are adequately insured. Seek advice from your insurer, broker or insurance advisor;
  • Familiarise yourself with the flood codes and their meaning (see later section);
  • In certain high risk areas the Environment Agency will send you a message by telephone, fax or pager. Contact the floodline 0845 988 1188 to find out if this service is available your area. ( for the deaf and hard or hearing there is a floodline minicom service 0845 602 6340 );
  • Be aware of the latest news, weather reports and flood warnings in force;
  • Make up a family flood plan and flood kit (see later section)
  • Prepare children's essentials and an emergency supply of any family medication or special foods;
  • Check that you know where and how to turn of gas electricity and mains water;
  • Place upstairs as much expensive furniture and sentimental items as possible and list further items to moved in an emergency;
  • Plan where to move your car/s to higher ground if possible;
  • Ensure all house gullies and drains are kept cleared of debris, leaves etc to help flood water drain away;
  • Consider purchasing an emergency supply of flood boards, sand bags and sand for placing over sink/bath plugs and in toilet bowls to prevent backflow and over air bricks;
  • If you have any vulnerable neighbours living nearby ensure that they are also prepared;
  • Consider the safety of any pets and animals;
  • Consider possible family or friends you would prefer to relocate to rather than a Emergency Rest Centre