Preparing for a flood

• Preparing for a flood could save your family, possessions and livelihood. Check your risk at the Environment Agency websiteor call Floodline on 0845 988 1188.
• If you are at risk from flooding register for the Environment Agency's free flood warnings service.
• Get to know the flood warning codes and what the flood warnings mean.
• Prepare now by buying and installing flood products in advance. Visit the EA website for advice or an  independent directory of flood products.
• Think about what you would want to move to safety in a flood. Being prepared could help you save time and valuable items.
• Check your buildings and contents insurance covers you for flooding. Don't underestimate the value of your home contents.
• Consider preparing an emergency kit. The British Red Cross provides suggestions on what might be useful to include.
• Consider getting a wind-up or battery powered radio so that you can stay up-to-date with information even if you have turn off your electricity supply.
• Find out how to turn off your gas, electricity and water supplies. Putting stickers on the taps and switches you need to turn off during a flood makes it easier and quicker to do.

Responding during a flood

• Tune into your local radio station or call Floodline to get the latest information. Floodline phone number 0845 988 1188.
• Report property flooding or river blockages to the Environment Agency incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60 (freephone 24 hour service).
• If safe to do so, turn off gas, electricity and water supplies before flood water enters your home.
• During a flood move your family and pets upstairs, or to a high place with a means of escape.
• Don't touch sources of electricity when standing in flood water.
• Don't drive through flood waters and avoid driving if at all possible.

After a flood

• Find out if it is safe to return to your property by monitoring the media and Local Authority website.
• Ring your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their advice. If you can access your property, take photographs for evidence.
• If there is raw sewage in your property you should leave your property and seek alternative accommodation until the need for clean-up has been assessed and essential cleaning completed.
• During clean up always wear waterproof outerwear, boots and gloves, and wash hands regularly and especially before eating to reduce risks of injury and infectious disease.
• Get your local electricity supply checked before switching back on. Have your gas or oil central heating checked by a qualified person.
• Your local authority may help provide skips for clearing flood-damaged household items. 
• Ensure good ventilation if using portable indoor heating appliances to dry out indoor spaces. Do not use petrol or diesel generators or other similar fuel- driven equipment indoors: the exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide which can kill. The Health Protection Agency offers HPA advice on the dangers of carbon monoxide.
• The stress and strain of being flooded and cleaning up can have a notable impact on mental health and wellbeing. The Health Protection Agency offers advice and guidance on the mental health effects of floodingand other topics related to flood recovery and health.