Responsibility for protecting homes and businesses lies primarily with owners and/or occupiers. Councils have no statutory obligation to provide flood defences to protect homes. However, Councils will always try to provide assistance where it is considered most needed and if resources, circumstances and budgets permit. The Council has a limited supply of sandbags which are used primarily for the protection of vulnerable homes when occupied homes are in imminent danger of flooding. We cannot provide sandbags for protecting gardens or outbuildings.
Environment Agency guide: What to do before, during and after a flood.
Floodwater is Dangerous!
- Six inches of fast flowing water can knock you over.
- Two feet of water can float your car.
- Flooding can cause manhole covers to come off, leaving hidden dangers.
- Don’t walk or drive through flood water.
- Don’t let children play in flood water.
- Don’t walk on flood defences or riverbanks.
- When water levels are high be aware that bridges may be dangerous to walk or drive over.
- Culverts are dangerous when flooded.
- Look out for other hazards such as fallen power lines and trees.
- Wash your hands thoroughly if you touch floodwater as it may be contaminated.
Flood warnings
- Check the Environment Agency website or call Floodline for latest information - 0845 9881188
- Alert neighbours, especially if they are elderly
- Block doors (with flood boards if available) and air vents with plastic sheeting and sandbags
- Move electrical and valuable items to a higher level (check insurance cover)
- Bring pets indoors
- Monitor flood warnings and weather reports
- Prepare to turn off gas, electricity and water supplies - store some drinking water in clean containers
- Prepare sandbags, protecting only the building rather than lining the perimeter of your land which reduces flood capacity
- Register with Floodline to receive flood warnings directly
- Listen to local radio
- Check BBC Ceefax page 419 and on digital TV page 405 or ITV Teletext page 154 If life is at risk call 999