What to do in the event of a flood?

| 13.10.2023

WHAT TO DO IF A FLOOD ALERT IS ISSUED?


If you do receive a weather alert and your home is at risk of flooding, here is a check list for the final precautions you can take.

INTERNAL CHECKLIST

  • Take detailed photos

    of your property and contents to help with any potential claim.

  • Airbricks 

    Close the covers on your airbricks or use airbrick covers to stop flood water from entering.

  • Floodsacks

    These should be placed on both sides of your door.

  • Drape curtains over their poles

    unless you have time to remove them.

  • Move valuables higher

    Move what you can upstairs or to a higher level.

  • Sinks

    Put plugs in sinks and weigh them down to stop backflow in toilets.

  • Electricals 

    Unplug and move electricals.

  • Protect large valuables

    Get your large sealable bags to wrap up large items, e.g. electrical goods, sofas that may be too hard to move. Tip: Use wellies or buckets for table legs to reduce damage.

  • Essential supplies

    Get your emergency grab bag and essential supplies.

EXTERNAL CHECKLIST

  • Vehicles

    Try to move vehicles to higher ground as soon as possible!

  • Floodsacks

    These should be placed on both sides of your door

  • Mains supplies

    Turn off your mains water, gas and electricity if it’s safe to do so.

WHAT NOT TO DO

  • Don’t use sandbags

    use flood bags or sacks, as these are much more effective than sandbags.

  • Try not to walk in the water

    as it could be contaminated with sewage.

  • Avoid driving

    on flooded roads.

  • Don’t stop the car

    in standing water, and drive through the highest section of the road slowly.

Lastly, 

  • Sign up for flood alerts if you haven't already, by phone, email or text.
  • Check your home insurance to make sure you are covered for flood damage
  • Keep yourself, your family and any pets safe
  • Consider how you could help vulnerable friends or neighbours.