In the event of a flood check the National Flood Forum or speak to a Floodline adviser to find out how to stay safe during a flood:
Floodline
Telephone: 0345 988 1188
24-hour service
Contacts in the event of a major flood incident
Emergency services
The police co-ordinate the response agencies in a major flood incident and can help with the evacuation of people from their homes where necessary.
If there is a threat to life, dial 999 and ask for the appropriate service.
Serious flooding is rare, but it’s important that you are prepared.
Be informed
You can:
- Register for flood warnings
- check the Flood Information Service on Gov.uk
- call The Environment Agency’s 24 hour Floodline on 08459 881188 for flood warning information for your area, or speak to an operator for advice and information
- Regularly consult local media outlets as they will broadcast warnings issued by the Environment Agency
- for more further advice and guidance during a flood check the Essex Resilience Forum and GOV.UK
Gas, water and electricity
It's important that you know where and how to turn off the water, gas and electricity supplies in your home.
Gas - Floodwaters may compromise the safety of your gas appliances. While they might ignite and seem to function properly, the flue or ventilation could be impaired by the water. Should you detect the odour of gas in your residence, promptly contact Transco National Grid at 0800 111999.
Electricity -Electrical Safety First offers advice on the precautions to take and the actions to avoid when returning to your home after a flood. If you spot dangerous power lines or experience a power cut contact: UK Power Networks - 0800 31 63 105 from a land line or 0333 202 2022 from a mobile phone.
Help from your local council
Your local District or Borough council will:
- help to re-house vulnerable people made homeless where there is no alternative solution
- take away waste such as soiled carpets and furnishings,
- make sure that there isn’t a threat to health from the general environment
If your property is being flooded by a blocked drain, this will need to be reported to Highways. They will not be able to investigate until the water has subsided.