13th to 19th October
As climate change drives heavier rainfall, longer droughts, and rising sea levels, more people, properties, and livelihoods are threatened by flooding.
In England alone, around 6.3 million homes and businesses are at risk of flooding, and many people don’t even realise it.
Would you know what to do before, during, and after a flood?
With greater awareness, proper preparation, and the right knowledge, we can build communities that are more resilient to climate change and more confident in facing future floods. Check out our poster below for key steps to stay flood-ready and safe – not just this week, but for the long term.
Before a Flood: Prepare in Advance
- Make a flood plan: This could be a personal, family, community group, or business plan, and should include emergency contact details (family, friends, and services), evacuation routes and centres, and a check-list of essential items.
- Prepare a flood kit: Pack essentials such as torches, a mobile phone, non-perishable food, bottled water, medication, important documents, and warm clothing.
- Sign up for free flood warnings to stay informed and act early.
- Check your flood risk online for the next 5 days and in the long-term.
- Protect your property: Store valuables higher up and consider installing flood doors, flood barriers, and other resistance and resilience measures.
During a Flood: Stay Safe and Informed
- Follow official advice: Tune into the local radio or television for updates and instructions.
- Switch off appliances: Turn off electricity, gas, and water if safe to do so. Make sure you know how to do this before an emergency.
- Avoid floodwater: Don’t walk or drive through floodwater – it could be dangerous and knock you down.
After a Flood: Recover Safely
- Only return home when officially declared safe.
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and start your claim.
- Take photos of the damage before cleaning or starting repairs.
- Ventilate your home: Use fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning to help dry out your property.
From Monday 13th to Sunday 19th October, the Environment Agency is launching Flood Action Week – a national campaign to raise awareness of flood risk and help you plan ahead for future flooding.
Visit the Environment Agency’s website to sign up for free flood warnings, check the flood risk in your area, and prepare yourself and your community for the challenges ahead.
Throughout the week, we will also be sharing practical advice, resources, and information on how to adapt to the changing climate and improve resilience to flooding.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay informed both now and in the future.