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Preparing for flood warnings across the UK

After what was an extremely different year to any we’ve experienced before, it’s easy to forget that before the first national lockdown, we were subjected to some of the worst weather we had seen in years. In February 2020, The Environment Agency issued 347 flood alerts, followed by 7 severe flood warnings, presenting a danger to life.

Many parts of the UK experienced disastrous flooding, a result of record-breaking rainfall following three successive storms (Ciara, Dennis and Jorge) leading to extensive river flooding.

Although we are rather lucky and as a country do not tend to suffer from earthquakes, hurricanes and wildfire, floods are one of the perils that can seriously affect an entire community. All the evidence suggests that future UK flooding is not only inevitable, but is likely to occur in the immediate future.

Time and tide wait for no one, so there is no time like the present to ensure that you’ve taken the necessary precautions to protect your property against flooding.

Steps you can take now to reduce the risk

·       Create a Flood Emergency Response Plan (FERP) and subscribe to flood alert warnings such as the Environment Agency scheme

·       Elevate critical stock and equipment by storing it on purpose-built metal shelving that has been secured to the ground or relocate to an upper level

·       Ensure fuel storage tanks are securely fastened or anchored to reduce potential pollution or damage in case of flooding

·       Consider raising power sockets, phone connections, servers and cabinets to a higher point such as 1 metre or above expected water levels

·       Inspect drainage systems at least once a year and regularly check the building for structural defects through which water could enter and seal them

·       Consider moving any stock kept in open yards to better shelter, and higher ground, wherever possible

·       Secure any immovable critical plant operations located in the basement against water ingress

·       Consider installing or upgrading to water-resistant furnishings, fixtures and fittings, especially floor and wall coverings

·       Consider investing in flood protection devices such airbrick covers, non-return valves for drains and waste pipes, and demountable barriers

To find out more about what measures to take when it comes to flooding season, you can read a full article here https://www.towergate.com/insight/floods-and-insurance-the-uk-landscape or get in contact with James Anscombe on 07973 784006 or by emailing [email protected].

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