Flood Advice

There are currently areas affected by flooding in the UK, if you are in an area at risk please read the following advice to prepare for possible flooding.

Pre-Flood Checks

• Be prepared to evacuate your property and think about where you can go for safety - will the route be passable?
• Know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains supplies.
• Prepare a flood kit of essential items such as a broom, spade, mop and bucket; domestic detergent and disinfectant; rubber boots, gloves and protective clothing; waterproof torch and radio; bottled water for drinking.
• Agree where you will go and how to contact friends and family.
• Think about what items you can move to a safe place and what are essential items for you to have now.

• You can sign up for Floodline Warnings Direct by calling Floodline on 0845 988 188 or by visiting the Environment Agency website http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/

Advice During a Flood

• Safety comes first! Think about evacuation before it is too late to move. Make sure you follow any advice or instructions provided by the emergency services.
• If floodwater is about to enter your home, turn off the gas, electricity and water supplies if it is safe to do so. DO NOT touch sources of electricity when standing in flood water.
• Gas and electricity supplies should remain switched off until a qualified professional has checked the system thoroughly. Wiring, appliances and pipe-work should also be inspected for safety and efficiency.
• Keep listening to local radio for updates.
• Move irreplaceable personal or sentimental items, such as photographs - as well as portable items - to an upper storey or higher location in your property to prevent loss or damage.
• Also check your garage to see if any items can be moved.
• If possible, raise ground floor furniture on blocks or bricks to minimise the risk of damage.

Advice After The Flood

• We have access to a wide range of specialists who can assist with the drying out and clean up of your property and also the necessary repairs or replacement.
• If there is any chance that electrical sockets have come into contact with water, switch off the electricity at the mains.
• If your electricity is switched off following an incident, make sure that a qualified electrician checks the electrical installation before it is switched back on.
• If your gas has to be turned off, make sure that a GasSafe registered tradesperson checks the gas supply before the gas is switched back on.
• Do not throw away any items until we or the loss adjuster tell you it is OK to do so.
• Make a list of any damaged items that you need to throw away before you dispose of them. Take a note of make and model numbers, and take photographs of any damage if you have a camera to hand.
• Wear appropriate clothing and gloves when handling anything that has been contaminated by flood waters. Remember floodwater often contains sewage, so take sensible hygiene precautions.
• Carry out any emergency repairs to protect your property from further losses.