Flood action week – Monday 12 to Sunday 18 October

You can:

Check the flood risk in your area Check for flooding in England – GOV.UK (https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/)

Sign up for flood warnings Get flood warnings by text, phone or email – GOV.UK (https://www.gov.uk/get-flood-warnings)

Make a flood plan Personal flood plan – GOV.UK (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/personal-flood-plan). You could include –

• contact details for your insurer, utility companies, local councils, medical contacts, friends and family
• how to safely turn off your gas, water and electricity
• safe ways to leave your home and somewhere to stay
• plans for children, older relatives, neighbours and anyone who may need extra help
• plans for pets, including food, medicine, carriers and a safe place to stay
• details of important documents, valuable items and things that matter to you
• a list of items for your flood kit

Make a flood kit. You could include –

• copies of important documents in a waterproof folder
• Medicine and a first aid kit
• bottled water and food that will not go off
• warm, waterproof clothing
• a torch and spare batteries
• a portable radio
• phone chargers and power banks
• supplies for babies, children or pets

Prepare your home for wet winter weather by taking simple steps to reduce the damage flooding could cause. You can –

• check whether your home insurance covers flooding
• look at ways to protect your home, such as flood barriers, airbrick covers and non-return valves
• keep important documents in waterproof containers and move valuable items and things that matter to you upstairs or to a higher place
• learn how to safely turn off your gas, electricity and water
• keep drains, gullies and watercourses on your property clear if it is safe
• move vehicles to higher ground when flooding is forecast, if it is safe
• keep your flood kit, insurance details and emergency contacts somewhere easy to reach

During severe weather, follow official flood warnings and local advice. Never walk, cycle or drive through floodwater. If a road is flooded, turn around and find another route.

If it’s safe, check on neighbours, friends or relatives who may need support. In an emergency, always call 999.

If you want to know more, the Flood Action website brings together practical information to help you prepare and stay safe. You can check your long-term and current flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings, make a flood plan, learn what to do before, during and after flooding, and find local support.