Flooding
Did you know that 1 in 6 houses in England is at risk of flooding?
Background
Flooding is our highest priority risk. Events happening around the country demonstrate frequency and severity of floods in the UK, highlighting the need to plan and prepare. Leicestershire has a history of flooding in the Soar Valley and Leicester is one of the top 10 flood risks in the country.
Are you at risk of being flooded?
See the following link to find out if you are at risk of flooding:
Environment Agency - Am I at risk?
Is there a flood warning in your area?
To find out if there are Flood Warnings in your area, please click on the following link to the Environment Agency
Environment Agency – Flood Warnings
Actions to take before/during/after a flooding incident
Before flooding:
- find out if you are at risk of flooding
- contact the Environment Agency Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for advice on current conditions and or visit the Environment Agency Flooding website
- put together an overnight bag in case you have to be evacuated
- contact your district / borough council for advice on sandbags and assistance
- protect doorways and low level air vents with sandbags or plastic bags filled with sand or earth. Remember to unblock before using gas or ventilating equipment
- check on your neighbours, especially those who are elderly or infirm and inform the Emergency Services or Flood Warden of their location
During flooding:
- keep calm, if you are in danger dial 999 and/or attract attention of people nearby
- turn off water, gas and electricity supplies at the first sign of flooding in your property
- if trapped, remain near a window where you can be seen
- if the Emergency Services are on the scene, follow their instructions
- be prepared, you may need to be evacuated
- do not enter flood waters as depth and current can be deceiving. Just 6 inches (15mm) of flood water can knock an adult off their feet. The flood waters may also be contaminated with sewage and there may be hidden dangers
- move your family, pets an valuables upstairs or to higher ground if threatened by floods
After flooding:
- contact your insurer
- do not switch on gas or electricity until it is checked by a professional
- do not use food that has been in contact with flood water
- always wear waterproof gloves when handling soiled items, and always wash your hands if you touch anything soiled by the flood water
- thoroughly clean and disinfect all items soiled by flood water
- assume flood water contains sewage
Become a community flood warden
The community flood warden scheme helps to bring the community together and prepare for flooding. See the following link for further information and how to volunteer: help you community – community flood wardens
Further information
- Met Office
- Environment Agency
- Health Protection Agency- frequently asked questions about the health aspects of flooding
