FloodSmart - prepare now for tomorrow. Protect your home.
Here we look at ways you can prepare your home in the event of a flood.
- flood barriers - use sandbags or flood barriers to protect doorways and low-lying areas. You can buy sandbags from a local builders' merchants or online in advance of an event. It is your responsibility to protect your property, not that of the local council and Environment Agency
- sump pump - if you have a sump pump, ensure it is in good working condition and consider a battery backup
- elevate electricals - raise electrical appliances and utilities above potential flood levels, if you are able.
- waterproof storage - we know many people live in single storey properties, so ensure you put any valuables or sentimental items in a waterproof container. Ensure passports, insurance policy details, certificates are placed in your grab bag
- seal openings - seal any openings in walls or foundations to prevent water from seeping in
- fit a toilet pan seal to prevent unwanted water or sewage flooding your home through a downstairs toilet
- if you need to evacuate, ensure your home is left secure
Did you know if you have a watercourse, ditch, stream, river, or culvert on or next to your property or land you are known as a 'riparian owner'. This means that you are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of these watercourses to ensure that they are not a flood risk to other people or property.
As well as providing havens for wildlife, watercourses capture excess rainwater when the ground becomes saturated that would otherwise flood footpaths, pavements and roads. A blocked ditch downstream can cause water to back up so that another ditch further upstream overflows to flood the road.
That's why, with the winter rain, it's important to check if you have a watercourse and that it is clear of any debris.
Read more here: Riparian ownership - Frequently asked questions