This checklist should help you to plan ahead and reduce the risk to you and your belongings.

Get informed

• Find out if you live in an area at risk from flooding. You can do this by calling Floodline on 0845 988 1188.
• Contact Floodline to register for flood alerts.
• Find out how to turn off your gas, electricity and water. If you are not sure how to do this, ask the person who checks your meter when they next visit. You could ask a friend or neighbour to help you in an emergency, if you find the taps or switches difficult to turn.

Flood warnings

Make sure you understand the different types of flood warning:

• Flood Watch. Flooding is possible and you should check with Floodline and local news.
• Flood Warning. Flooding of homes, businesses and main roads is expected. Act now.
• Severe Flood Warning. Severe flooding is expected. Imminent danger to life and property. Act now.
• All Clear. All clear is issued when flood watches or warnings are no longer in force.
• Flood water levels receding. Check all is safe to return. Seek advice.

Check your insurance

• Make sure you are properly insured. You can contact the British Insurance Brokers’ Association to find details of insurance companies in your area. Its number is 0901 1814 0015.
• Keep details of your insurance policy and the emergency contact number somewhere safe – maybe in a glass jar with a screw top lid.

Make a plan

• Plan your escape route.
• Find out if friends and family can offer you a place to stay.
• If you are disabled, contact your local social services to see how they can help you.
• Plan how you will protect your pets. You could think about getting a portable pet carrier.

Store your possessions safely

• Make a list of useful numbers and prepare a flood kit. Store them together. Your flood kit should be stored where you can easily get to it if your home is flooded. It should include:
  • a torch and a supply of batteries;
  • blankets and warm clothing;
  • waterproofs, including rubber gloves;
  • a first-aid kit, including a supply of any essential medication;
  • a supply of bottled water;
  • a stock of non-perishable food items; and 
  • a portable radio and supply of batteries.
• Store important documents and sentimental items in a safe place. Try to get into the habit of storing them upstairs or in a high place downstairs.