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Flooding

Flooding dos and don'ts

Follow these dos and don'ts to stay safe in a flood. 

What to do in a flood

In the event of a flood: 

  • keep together and safe with your family and those around you 
  • have an emergency ‘grab bag’ prepared 
  • pay close attention to the advice of the emergency services and local authority
  • take all warnings seriously and respond quickly
  • isolate gas, electricity and water at the fuse board, gas meter and stopcock – make sure you know how to do this quickly 
  • stay alert and monitor the ongoing situation 
  • block downstairs toilets and drains to prevent backflow of sewage – use a sandbag or a strong bin bag filled with soil
  • move important items to a high and safe place within the home 

What not to do in a flood

In the event of a flood:

  • don’t enter flood water - only 6 inches of fast flowing water can knock a person over and there may be unseen hazards – uncovered manholes, sharp edges and unstable surfaces may be hidden beneath the surface 
  • don’t drive through flood water - less than 2 feet of water can be enough to float a car and beneath the water may be hidden hazards such as sudden drops, debris and fallen power lines 
  • don’t come into contact with flood water – it is often contaminated with sewage and other substances. Wear rubber gloves and boots, and wash thoroughly if you do accidentally come into contact with flood water 
  • don’t ever attempt to swim through flood water - you may be swept away and being a strong swimmer will not protect you from being struck by flowing debris 
  • don’t re-enter a flooded area until you are advised it is safe to do so 
  • don’t enter a property that has been flooded unless you are sure it is structurally safe – if in doubt it should be professionally checked
  • don’t turn on your electricity or gas supplies until they have been checked by a qualified electrician/engineer - be aware of gas leaks – do not smoke or use open flames 

For more information, read the flooding booklet:

Document
Flooding guidance booklet (PDF, 947.99KB)
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