What to do in the event of a flood

With the different changes in weather, it is difficult to know when and where flooding can occur.  If you are caught up in a flood, our what to do in the event of a flood will guide you safely through it.

Follow our guide:

1. Check the met weather service to keep up to date.
2. Move to higher ground if possible.
3. Do not walk or drive through floodwaters.  Six inches of moving water can knock you over.  Two feet of water can sweep you and your vehicle away.
4. Abandon your car if the water is not moving.  Never leave your car and enter moving water.
5. During heavy rainfall, never park or camp near water.
6. Always keep a torch, blanket and first aid supplies in your car.
7. Get in touch with your insurer, they may be able to offer you alternative accommodation until the water subsides.  Click here for guidance.

How to prepare my home for a flood

• Buy flood insurance if your area is flood-prone.
• If you are in a flood-prone area, have an emergency plan.
• Ensure you have a waterproof torch, batteries, first aid supplies and money in your home that you can get quick access to.
• Turn off gas and electricity at the mains before you leave the property (if safe to do so).
• If safe to do so, move your possessions upstairs in your property.
• If you are standing in water or are wet, do not touch electrical equipment.

What happens after a flood

• When your local authority advises it is safe to do so, you may return home.
• Do not stand in water, it may still be electrically charged from power lines and it may be infected by sewerage.
• Do not drive in areas that may still be flooded.
• Photograph the damage to your property for insurance purposes.
• Get in touch with your insurance company.  Click here for guidance on this.

Stock up on your essential emergency flood kit

Buy here

Whether you’re caught in a flood situation, taking a late-night walk with the dog or camping, the reliable Adjustable Focus LED Flashlight is a good companion.  Durable and easy to handle, it is an ideal handheld flashlight for using around the house or in an emergency.

Buy here

This emergency blanket is a must-have accessory for any emergency, the car boot, outdoor enthusiasts, explorers, rescue teams and other first-aid situation.

Buy here

This handy emergency first aid kit has a robust case that contains 20x assorted waterproof plasters; 2 x sterile Eeepads with bandages; 4 x non-woven triangular bandages; 6 x safety pins; 6 x medium 12cm x 12cm sterile dressings; 2 x large 18cm x 18cm sterile dressings; 10 x alcohol-free hygienic cleansing wipes; 1 x pair of powder-free vinyl gloves and 1 x First Aid administration guidance leaflet.

Buy here

The contents of this all in one survival kit grab bag are designed in the event of an emergency situation.  Supplied in a backpack with a hanging handle, this kit contains 20 x emergency foil blanket, 100 x identification bracelets, 1 x LED headlight (supplied with alkaline batteries), 1 x Hi-Vis vest, 1 x marker pen, 1 x travel First Aid kit and 20 x disposable rain ponchos.

We hope you found this what to do in the event of a flood guide helpful.

Insurance claim guidance:

If you need to deal with an insurance claim click here.

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