Guidance for preparing for a flood

Specific guidance for citizens on preparing for a flood

• sign up to flood warnings and understand
  flood warning codes
  
• collect personal belongings, including insurance and bank details, essential telephone numbers and keep them together in a water proof bag
  
• move people, pets, valuables and sentimental items upstairs or to a higher level
  
• keep a separate list of useful telephone numbers to hand (this should include your local council, insurance company and  floodline telephone: 0845 988 1188)
  
• find out where and how to switch of your gas and electricity
  
• if possible, move electrical equipment and furniture upstairs
  
• alert neighbours and assist the elderly, inform and those with small children
  
• block doorways and air bricks
  
• avoid walking and driving through floodwater
  
• keep up to date with your local radio station
  
• prepare a flood kit bag that is easily accessible to you, that has essential items, e .g. warm clothes, torch, radio (battery or wind up), food, water, mobile phone, any medication, important documents and first aid kit.

Specific guidance for during a flood and after a flood is also available that includes measures you can take to protect your home and valuables.

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