Stay safe…
- Turn on local radio or television channels for real time updates in your area. Enable severe weather alerts on your smartphone.
- Ensure the safety of children, pets and any vulnerable adults around you.
- Make a plan and be prepared to move to higher grounds if/ when the floods continue. If you are already on high grounds, stay put.
- Gather emergency supplies and keep them within easy reach. Cash, a torch with charged batteries, medicines and any first aid supplies are recommended.
Some food supplies, emergency water, copies of important documents, including your insurance papers and a battery radio are also advised in more severe circumstances.
- Protect your property and belongings – bring in outdoor furniture and move important items to higher ground – upstairs or in the attic. Move electrical off the ground where they can get wet.
- Sandbags can provide a temporary barrier to small amounts of water and debris at your door.
- If a severe weather warning is issued, follow any safety instructions given.
- If you do have to leave your home during a flood, know how to turn off your gas, water and electricity if it’s safe. Find out beforehand how to do this.
The gas shut-off valve is usually beside the meter. The mains electricity cut-off is usually a big red switch on your fuse box. If you can’t find your water stopcock, ask someone with practical experience or a plumber to help you.
- Ahead of time, you’ll want to have buildings and contents insurance – you can check if flood insurance is included by calling your broker.
Contact your insurance company in the immediate aftermath of a flood – they can advise you on your next steps!
Importantly, remain calm. The more prepared you can be in advance, the better. Your safety and well-being is paramount.