Flooding dos and don'ts
Follow these dos and don'ts to stay safe in a flood.
What to do in a flood
In the event of a flood:
- keep together and safe with your family and those around you
- have an emergency ‘grab bag’ prepared
- pay close attention to the advice of the emergency services and local authority
- take all warnings seriously and respond quickly
- isolate gas, electricity and water at the fuse board, gas meter and stopcock – make sure you know how to do this quickly
- stay alert and monitor the ongoing situation
- block downstairs toilets and drains to prevent backflow of sewage – use a sandbag or a strong bin bag filled with soil
- move important items to a high and safe place within the home
What not to do in a flood
In the event of a flood:
- don’t enter flood water - only 6 inches of fast flowing water can knock a person over and there may be unseen hazards – uncovered manholes, sharp edges and unstable surfaces may be hidden beneath the surface
- don’t drive through flood water - less than 2 feet of water can be enough to float a car and beneath the water may be hidden hazards such as sudden drops, debris and fallen power lines
- don’t come into contact with flood water – it is often contaminated with sewage and other substances. Wear rubber gloves and boots, and wash thoroughly if you do accidentally come into contact with flood water
- don’t ever attempt to swim through flood water - you may be swept away and being a strong swimmer will not protect you from being struck by flowing debris
- don’t re-enter a flooded area until you are advised it is safe to do so
- don’t enter a property that has been flooded unless you are sure it is structurally safe – if in doubt it should be professionally checked
- don’t turn on your electricity or gas supplies until they have been checked by a qualified electrician/engineer - be aware of gas leaks – do not smoke or use open flames
For more information, read the flooding booklet:
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