Safety Tips

Before the Floods

• Know what the flood warning codes mean:

	Flood watch - flooding possible. Be aware. Be prepared. Watch out
	Flood warning - flooding expected affecting homes, businesses and main roads
	Act now - severe flood warning.Imminent danger to life and property
	All clear -issued when flood watches or warnings are no longer in force. Check the current flood warnings in force

• On receiving a flood warning, inform your neighbors
  
• Plan to allow time to protect your valuables and important documents.
  
• Find out whether your District Council supplies sandbags
  
• Consider it may be dark before the flooding arrives - so keep a torch handy
  
• Know how to turn off gas and electricity
  
• If evacuated, try to tell friends and relatives where you are going
  
• Take medication with you along with any food for special dietary needs (such as baby foods)
  
• Co-operate with any requests to evacuate your premises
  
• If you are evacuated, domestic pets will be cared for by the RSPCA while you are at the rest centre

During the Floods

• Do not return to your property until you have been informed that it is safe
  
• Be aware that flooding may not have reached its peak, or may be predicted to return
  
• When driving in a flooded area, obey ‘Road Closed’ signs
  
• If driving in a flooded area, drive slowly to avoid making waves which may put rescue workers in danger
  
• Respond to the instructions from Police Officers - they have your safety in mind
  
• Avoid unnecessary contact with water, it maybe contaminated
  
• Pets which are normally kept in tanks or cages should, wherever possible, be left where they are or moved upstairs

After the Floods

• Gas and electricity should only be restored after consultation with an approved contractor
  
• Throw away food that has come into contact with contaminated water – even sealed or tinned food
  
• Take photographs or video footage of all flood damage to your property and personal possessions
  
• Wear protective clothing when handling debris it may have come into contact with contaminated water
  
• Good ventilation is essential to dry your property - remember to lock and secure your property when unoccupied
  
• Obtain several quotations before any repairs are undertaken. Consider using locally known and recommended companies