Listen out for warnings on radio, TV, internet and phone Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for more information.

What to do when you hear a flood warning

• Prepare your family and check the family flood plan and flood kit.
• Move pets, vehicles, valuables and other items to safety.
• Alert your neighbours, particularly the elderly and vulnerable.
• Put any sandbags or flood boards in place - but make sure your property is ventilated.
• Plug sinks/baths and put a sandbag in the toilet bowl to prevent backflow.
• Be ready to turn off gas and electricity (get help if needed). Unplug electrical items and move them upstairs if possible.
• Co-operate with emergency services and local authorities -They have your safety in mind - you may be evacuated to a rest centre -
• Do as much as you can in daylight. Doing anything in the dark will be a lot harder, especially if the electricity fails
  
  Stay safe in a flood
• Floods can kill. Do not try to walk or drive through floodwater - six inches of fast flowing water can knock you over and two feet of water will float your car. Manhole covers may have come off and there may be other hazards you can't see.
• Avoid contact with floodwater Do not allow children to play in flood water areas. The flood water may be contaminated with sewage and contain harmful bacteria. Wash hands regularly and if a stomach upset develops seek medical advice.
• Never try to swim through fast flowing water - you may get swept away or be struck by an object in the water.
• Do not walk on defences, riverbanks or cross river bridges if possible - they may collapse in extreme situations.
• Do not return to your property until you have informed that it is safe.