5 tips for staying safe in heavy rain
When there is a rain warning in place, here are some things you can do...
1. Could your property be at risk of flooding?
Follow this three-point plan to check and be prepared:
- Check if your property is at risk.
If you are at risk, take the next two steps to protect your property when you need to:
- Prepare a flood plan
- Prepare an emergency flood kit
2. Staying safe in flooding
It's never too late to take action and prepare for flooding. Follow these 6 simple steps to protect your home or business:
- Check the flood advice in your area to know when and where flooding will happen
- Charge mobile phone devices
- Park your car outside the flood zone
- Prepare a flood kit to help you cope in the event of flooding to your home and business
- Store valuables up high, including electrical devices, important documents and furniture
- Turn off gas water and electricity supplies
If you are trapped in a building by floodwater, follow these simple instructions to keep you and your family safe:
- Go to the highest level in the building you are in
- Do not go into attic spaces to avoid being trapped by rising water
- Only go to a roof if necessary
- Call 999 and wait for help
More about what to do in a flood
3. Is it safe for you to drive?
It is safer not to drive in these conditions but if you must drive you can do this more safely by:
- Slowing down
- Using main roads
- Using dipped headlights
- Giving yourself more time to react on slippery surfaces
- Keeping a bigger gap between vehicles
More about driving in severe weather
4. What about flood water?
It is not safe to drive or walk or swim through floodwater, avoid it where possible and if you are affected by fast flowing or deep water call 999 and wait for help.
5. Thinking about your neighbours
Help to protect the vulnerable people that you know, including older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone: they may need support with food and medical supplies.
If you are worried about your health or that of somebody you know, ring NHS 111.
Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, stay up to date with the weather in your area.
