The MP for one of Britain’s most flood-prone areas has urged his constituents to use a new Environment Agency service to prepare for winter downpours.
Ian Liddell-Grainger, Conservative member for Bridgwater and West Somerset, says an alarming number of house owners still have no precise idea of their homes’ individual flood risk – or any pre-prepared plans for dealing with any emergency that might occur.
In 2013 and 2014 large areas of Mr Liddell-Grainger’s constituency were hit by the worst floods in 200 years, with many homes remaining uninhabitable for more than a year.
Now he says anyone who might be remotely at risk of flooding should take advantage of the agency’s support. By calling Floodline on 0345 988 1188 they can check their flood risk, sign up to the free flood warning system, and receive advice and guidance about what to do before, during, or after a flood.
And there’s more information at www.gov.uk/floodsdestroy .
But, said Mr Liddell-Grainger, just as important as knowing the risk was knowing what to do if the worst came to the worst.
“It is absolutely essential that anyone who may be remotely at risk of flooding draws up an action plan for their own home,” he said.
“This should cover such things as turning off gas, water and electricity, evacuation plans and identifying a safe place where the family and any pets can go to get away from floodwater.
“It’s also sensible to keep a grab bag handy and to fill it with warm clothes, medication, a mobile phone, a torch, batteries and a wind-up radio.”
Mr Liddell-Grainger, who is due to meet Environment Agency officials on Friday to discuss their flood planning in Somerset, said some people might regard such measures as being over the top.
“But in fact planning for a flood and being ready for it is the most important thing to do,” he said.
“Far too many people have been caught out and have had to leave their homes in a hurry, ill-equipped, with services still turned on and documents such as passports and birth certificates left at the mercy of the water.
“I cannot stress how seriously this should be taken: one in every six properties in England is at risk of flooding but only 38 per cent of those living in flood-prone areas are aware that their home is at risk: we need to change this.”