Think about flooding before it happens

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It may be dry now but as we saw last week, when it rains, it pours! 

Did you know there is an app that you can download from the apple/ play store that will alert you to flood warnings in your area? Flooding can drastically affect the property your vehicle and in some cases your health. Your local authority can tell you about the dangers of flooding where you live.  Find out before a flood happens. It is important to complete the necessary flood prevention steps in order to protect yourself and the property against flooding.

There are many ways in which you can protection your property from a flood, this includes flood proofing, flood boards and airbrick covers. Landlord and Contents insurance may not protect your property from flooding and so it may be worth looking at flood insurance policy to protect your home and your belongings from further issues relating to flood.

If a flood has been forecast check your local radio and if you have any questions about how to protect your property from the floods, please contact your local authority or Floodline: 0345 988 1188. Advice is available to make your personal flood plan from:  www.gov.uk/prepare-for-a-flood/make-a-flood-plan.

It is important to know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water before flood water enters your home. Phone your local suppliers if you are unsure how to do this. Make sure you move important personal items up high so that they are not damaged if water enters the property. If you think water may enter the home and you many need to leave quickly make sure to pack your essential items such as Phone, insurance details, bank cards and money, any Medicines and medical devices, glasses ect.

During a flood do not touch sources of electricity and avoid walking or driving in or near flood water when possible, take care if you must go into flood water, there could be hidden dangers like sharp objects, raised manhole covers and pollution. Remember to and wash your hands regularly, swallowing flood water or mud can cause diarrhoea, fever or abdominal pain, if you think you or a family member has ingested any flood water call the NHS non-emergency number on 111.

After a flood you may need to stay with friends/ family or ask your local authority to help you find alternative accommodation if your home has been damaged by flood water. Only return to your home when essential repairs and cleaning have been completed. Phone your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their advice. Take photographs before you start cleaning and ask your insurer before discarding items that cannot be cleaned (such as mattresses and carpets). Wear rubber boots and gloves to clean up and be sure to wash hands afterwards. Clean all hard surfaces (such as walls and floors) with hot water and disinfectant. Heating, dehumidifiers and good ventilation can help dry out your home. Mould will stop growing as your home dries out but if it persists a specialist cleaner may be needed.

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