We list here what you should do during and after a flood. If you live or work in a flood risk zone you should prepare a Flood Plan and register to receive Flood Warnings. Refer to our Flood Risk page.
Things to do during a flood
- Tune into your local radio station on a battery or wind-up radio
- Fill jugs and saucepans with water
- Grab your flood kit – if you have prepared one
- Collect blankets, torch, first aid kit, medication and food
- Move important documents, personal items, valuables, and lightweight belongings upstairs or to high shelves
- Raise large items of furniture, or put them in large bags if you have them
- Move people, outdoor belongings, cars and pets to higher ground
- Switch off water, gas and electricity at mains when water is about to enter your home. Do not touch sources of electricity when standing in water
- Fit flood protection products, if you have them, for example flood boards, airbrick covers, sandbags
- Put plugs in sinks and baths. Weigh them down with a pillowcase or plastic bag filled with soil
- If you do not have non-return valves fitted, plug water inlet pipes with towels or cloths
- Move your family and pets upstairs or to a high place with a means of escape
- Listen to the advice of the emergency service and evacuate if told to do so
- Avoid walking or driving through flood water. Six inches of fast-flowing water can knock over an adult and two feet of water can move a car
Things to do after a flood
- If you have flooded, contact your insurance company as soon as possible
- Take photographs and videos of your damaged property as a record for your insurance company
- If you don’t have insurance, contact your local authority for information on grants and charities that may help you
- Flood water can contain sewage, chemicals and animal waste. Always wear waterproof outerwear, including gloves, wellington boots and a face mask
- Have your electrics, central heating and water checked by qualified engineers before switching them back on