During a flood

Put your safety first

Don’t try to walk, drive or swim through a flood

• No matter how small the amount of water, the current could still be strong.
• There will be holes and hazards below water level that you can’t see.
• You could get hit by an object as it’s swept away.

Don’t walk on sea defences, riverbanks or across river bridges

• They can collapse.
• You could be hit by waves or rocks.

Avoid any form of direct contact with flood water

• It may be contaminated with sewage 

Stay away from power lines and electrical wires

• They could collapse into the water.

Pay attention to flood warnings and updates

• Call Floodline on 0845 988 1188, log on to live flood updates 
• Check weather reports regularly.
• Remember the flood warning symbols, what they mean and what they’re asking you to do.

Put your flood plan into practice

• Move pets, vehicles, valuables and other items to safety.
• Make sure your neighbours have received the warning and will be safe, particularly if they are elderly or infirm.
• Put flood protection products into place, but make sure your property is still ventilated.
• Charge mobile phones.
• Keep your household flood kit with you.
• Businesses should activate their business flood plan.
• Be prepared to turn off your gas and electricity and unplug electrical items. Move them upstairs if possible
• Co-operate with emergency services and local authorities and prepare for evacuation.
• Fill the bath, sinks and jugs with clean water and keep bottled water handy.
• Do as much as you can during daylight; if power supplies are cut, you will be in darkness at night. 

What to do after a flood