Flooding fiasco

Pictures of the British number one in tennis, Andy Murray, filled the front and back pages of the newspapers this morning after he defeated the world number one, Rafael Nadal to reach the finals of the US Open.

Although fantastic news for British sport, surely updates on the continued flooding occuring in Britain and Northern Ireland would be a top priority in the papers? Those affected need to know what to do next and those at risk need to know what they can do to prevent their homes being destroyed by the continuing rain. 

Land & Brand New Homes have come up with a few points which will help prevent the risk of flooding.  Remember you can call Floodline on 0845 988 1188, 24 hours a day for real-time flood warning and advice.

What needs to be looked into?

Reduce water from getting into your home …

Ideally cover windows, doors and airbricks with sandbags, plywood or metal sheeting. It is now possible to buy “Kitemark certified” flood defence products for protecting your home
Use silicone sealant on doors and windows; smear a layer around frames then shut and lock the door/window

Electricity, gas & water …

Turn off electricity, gas and water supplies at the mains. Make sure you know where these are in advance
Unplug all electrical items and store upstairs or in the loft
Put plugs in all sinks but remember to weigh them down with something heavy

Furniture and appliances …

Move whatever you can upstairs, or raise items up on bricks or blocks, this may be helpful for large and heavy appliances such as fridges and freezers
Move furniture away from walls, this aids with drying your property later
Where possible, roll up rugs and carpets and put them upstairs
To keep curtains above flood water, if you do not have time to remove, hang them over the rails
Leave internal doors open or remove them and place them upstairs

Personal Items …

Get into the habit of storing any personal items upstairs, remember sentimental items cannot be replaced
Keep important documents in a sealed bag, upstairs
Make sure you have any medication you need to take close to hand

Pets …

Can you move them to a safer enviroment?
Make sure transportation items are readily available i.e. cat basket
Ensure you have adequate food supplies and water available

General …

Keep a list of useful telephone numbers close to hand or ensure they are added to your mobile. Make sure you have the Floodline number (0845 988 1188) and the local number
Can you move your car to a safe area?
Move anything outside to a safer location i.e. dustbins, garden chemicals, shed contents
Put together a “flood kit” include a torch, warm clothing, waterproof clothing, wellingtons, blankets, a portable radio, first aid kit, water and food supply and keep it in a safe location
Discuss a potential flooding with family members, write a flood plan and keep it in the “flood kit”
Check on elderly neighbours, they may not be aware and need assistance
Make sure you have adequate insurance cover

Have you got any more advice? Has your property been flooded? Post your comments and stories …