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Protection from Floods

 

Are you in a flood risk area? 

  • Has your local area been flooded in the past. Or do you live near a river, the sea or in a low-lying area?        

FloodsDon't wait for the next flood when it could be too late. A detailed guide called 'Preparing for Floods' gives important advice on how to reduce the damage caused to your home or business premises if flooding occurs. Below are just some of the simple steps you can take NOW. 

  • Make sure you have flood boards (usually plastic or metal boards) or sandbags ready to block doorways and airbricks.
  • Check you know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water at the mains.
  • Keep valuable or sentimental belongings above water level - preferably upstairs.
  • If you have home insurance, check to see if it covers you for flood damage.      

  

If you are planning building or decoration work there is more you can do. 'Preparing for Floods' will help you or your builder decide what flood resistant materials and methods to use. Whatever your budget you can improve your flood protection and lower the cost and distress of any future floods. For example:

  • Choose treated solid timber skirting boards, solid doors, PVCu kitchen units and other materials that will better withstand the effect of flooding.
  • Use floor and wall coverings that are flood resistant. For example painted walls will suffer less in flooding than wallpaper. Wood, stone or tile floors with rugs will suffer less than fitted carpets.
  • Plasterboard is easily damaged in floods. If you use it, place the sheets horizontally. Vertical plasterboard all has to be removed after flooding. Placing it horizontally means you only have to replace the damaged parts.
  • Avoid built-in electrical appliances so that you can move them if there is a flood.
  • Raise telephone points, electrical sockets and switches so they are above flood levels.      

Want more information?

This advice is taken from the more detailed guide 'Preparing for Floods' which gives homeowners and builders practical steps to reduce flood damage. Copies are available from the Environment Agency's Floodline on 0845 9881188

To check if your home is in a flood risk area use the Environment Agency or homecheck  websites.



Last updated 25/05/2007 12:55:00


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