Prepare against flooding

Be Prepared

What to do before, during and after a flood: an Environment Agency guide

This leaflet contains useful information to help you reduce the effects of flooding on you and your property: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/403213/LIT_5216.pdf

Personal flood plan

If flooding happens, it really helps to have a plan for what you can do – for example, moving your car or furniture. It also helps to think about things in advance so you can make sure you are as prepared as possible – for example, by storing important documents and photos upstairs, or on a high shelf. A government guide: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/444659/LIT_4112.pdf

Community emergency plans

Check with your town or parish council to see if there is an emergency plan for your community. You can volunteer to be a flood warden, which doesn’t require any special skills, or you can let the flood wardens know if you are vulnerable in some way and might need help during flooding.

Somerset Prepared

Somerset Prepared is a partnership of the emergency services, the local authorities, and voluntary agencies involved with emergency preparedness in Somerset. There are lots of videos and resources on the website, and they hold an annual event offering free training, workshops and presentations. Sign up for the newsletter on the website: http://www.somersetprepared.org.uk/

Free flood packs for Somerset residents

Rotary Clubs in Somerset have a supply of free flood packs to homes which are in danger of flash floods. The pack consists of compact, self-inflating bags which can be used to protect homes against flash floods. They can also be strung together to form a wall. To find out more, please email david303welch@btinternet.com. A video demonstrating how flood bags work is available here – https://youtu.be/5w91phm37Lg