As part of Flood Action Week (13 – 19 October), millions across the country are being urged to know their flood risk and what to do in the event of flooding.
In the Midlands, the Environment Agency, Severn Trent Water and Telford & Wrekin Council have partnered up to share advice to help people get ‘flood ready’ for the winter ahead.
The organisations have put together their top tips for people at risk and a guide to ‘who does what’ in times of flooding.
While relevant organisations work closely on flooding impacts, members of the public can contact their local council for help on surface water flooding, their local water company on sewer flooding and the Environment Agency on major river flooding.
People are warned not to be complacent about the risk of flooding, despite much of the Midlands region still being in drought.
The dry conditions of recent months mean that the ground is hard and compacted, increasing the risk of localised surface water flooding.
A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said:
With a changing climate, the frequency and severity of flooding will only increase. That’s why it’s essential you know what to do in a flood.
By knowing what actions to take, you can reduce the effects on your home and family and even save lives.
We urge people to check if they are at risk and to sign up for Environment Agency warnings.
A spokesperson for Severn Trent Water said:
We know how upsetting flooding can be, and as we move into the colder months and the potential for heavy rainfall, we want to make sure our customers feel supported and informed.
That’s why we’re working in closely with the Environment Agency and local authorities to help communities stay safe and be prepared.
By sharing simple, practical advice to help protect your home, and making sure you know exactly who to contact, whether it’s flooding from roads, rivers or sewers, it’s vital that people contact the right organisation quickly so the right action can be taken.
By working together and making it easier to get the right help quickly, we can respond faster and ensure that you have the information and help you need, when you need it most.
Councillor Richard Overton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Highways, Housing and Enforcement at Telford & Wrekin Council said:
Flooding is a real and recurring risk in our area, with both river and surface water events becoming more frequent and unpredictable.
As a local authority, we’re not just raising awareness during Flood Action Week, we’re actively working year-round to improve drainage, maintain flood defences, and support residents.
This is through practical advice and resources which is why we continue to invest into tackling flooding in hot spot locations across the borough while providing support to residents and businesses.
We’re committed to helping our communities stay safe and resilient and Flood Action Week is a timely reminder for everyone to check their flood risk and take simple steps to protect their homes and families.
- For flooding on roads, small rivers and streams - you should contact your local council, this includes blocked drains or grates on highways. They will also help you with groundwater surface flooding, as well as flooding in streams, brooks and small rivers.
- For major river flooding - contact the Environment Agency to understand your level of flood risk, what work is being done to reduce flood risk in your area and advice on how to prepare for flooding. You can find more information and contact details on the Environment Agency website. The Flood line number is 0345 988 1188.
- For sewer flooding or flooding due to burst pipes - if the flooding is coming from the public sewer you will need Severn Trent Water. If the flooding is due to heavy rain, Severn Trent Water may need to wait for the flood water to subside before they can investigate. You should also contact your insurer so they can give you help and advice.
Environment Agency advice
The best way to be flood ready is early preparation and knowing what to do in advance. Some of the actions people can take to reduce the dangers are:
Local council advice
Flooding on local roads: If you see flooding in local roads, report it to your local council.
If you live in the Telford area you can contact Telford & Wrekin Council.
Severn Trent Water advice
There are a few steps that people can take to help keep their home flood-free during stormy conditions:
- Empty any water butts in the garden before the rain starts, this will help reduce the rainwater flow into the drains when a storm arrives.
- Check that your home, garden drains and guttering are free-flowing – clear out any leaves or other waste so rainwater can more easily flow away.
- Have a look at the roadside drains around your house and clear any leaves or debris that you can – or get in touch with your local council if blocked.
More information, including details on who to contact in the event of flooding, can be found on our website: What to do during flooding and search for ‘flooding’.
General advice
- Monitor alerts: Stay updated by checking flood warnings through the Environment Agency’s website or subscribing to their alert service for real-time updates.
- Safety first: Avoid entering floodwaters. They can be hazardous due to hidden debris and contamination. Always adhere to evacuation orders from local authorities.
- Emergency kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as bottled water, non-perishable food, medications, a torch, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
- Protect your home: Use sandbags or flood boards to help prevent water entering your property. Turn off utilities such as gas, electricity, and water if instructed to do so.
- Stay informed: Listen to local news and weather updates for information on the flood situation and any changes to safety advice.
- Help vulnerable neighbours: Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours to ensure they are safe and have the necessary supplies.
- Insurance and documentation: Keep important documents safe and consider taking photographs of your property for insurance claims.
