FloodSmart – prepare now for tomorrow. Preparing for a flood warning in your area
When a flood warning is issued for your area, it's essential to understand the steps you may need to take to protect yourself, your home, and those around you.
Flood conditions can develop quickly, and being prepared helps ensure you can respond calmly and effectively.
The following considerations outline the key actions to think about as soon as a warning is announced, helping you stay safe, informed, and ready to act if the situation escalates.
Communication plan
If you needed to leave your home quickly, how would you stay in touch with the people you care about?
Many of us store everything on our phones, but batteries run flat and signal can drop during an emergency.
Prepare a simple back‑up plan:
- write down essential phone numbers for family, friends and neighbours
- store the list in your grab bag, preferably in a waterproof pouch
- make sure everyone in your household knows the plan
The Floodline number is 0345 988 1188 - use this number to report flooding in your area or if your home is flooded.
If you have a disability or need extra help you can contact Floodline and ask for flood warnings to be sent to a friend or relative on your behalf. Same telephone number as above or textphone: 0345 602 6340.
Looking after family and pets
Floods rarely happen when it's convenient. Not everyone may be at home, so discuss and document an evacuation plan in advance:
- agree meeting points and emergency contacts
- ensure everyone knows the quickest safe routes out of the area
Don't forget your pets:
- check which nearby shelters accept animals, if required, or
- arrange in advance with friends or family who could look after them if you need to evacuate
Moving vehicles
If your property is at risk, move cars, vans or motorbikes:
- park on higher ground or further inland if you can
- keep vehicles within walking distance
- ensure you have plenty of fuel; traffic can be slow during a major incident.
'I don't live in a flood zone'
Even if you don't work or live in a flood risk area, you can still be affected:
- flash flooding can occur anywhere when heavy rainfall overwhelms drains and local systems
- surface water flooding is not always linked to rivers - and may not be monitored by the Environment Agency, meaning you may not receive a flood alert.
To stay informed, sign up for Met Office Weather Warnings, on their refreshed app, which will highlight severe weather risks even outside flood‑monitored zones.
Remember - a crisis can happen when we least expect it.
If your home becomes uninhabitable
If flood damage means you cannot stay in your home and you have nowhere else to go, contact your local council. You will be treated as a priority because this is an emergency.
Housing options: 01903 737552
- Monday to Thursday: 8.45am to 5.15pm
- Friday: 8.45am to 4.45pm
If an emergency rest centre has been opened locally, you will receive advice and support there.
Insurance
If possible, make sure your home is insured:
- flood cover is usually included in buildings insurance, protecting the structure of your property
- contents insurance is separate and covers your belongings - essential if you want them protected from flood damage.
Check your current policies to confirm what is and isn't covered. Standard home insurance often excludes flood damage unless specifically added.
To make any future claims easier:
- take clear photos of your home and belongings now
- store copies digitally and somewhere safe