Spelthorne Borough Council

Providing Quality Services to the People of
Ashford, Laleham, Shepperton, Staines, Stanwell & Sunbury

Flooding: dos and don'ts

(Reproduced from the Environment Agency's website)

Do	Don't
Switch off all electrical and gas appliances, and turn services off at the mains.	Don't walk through flowing water - currents can be deceptive, and shallow, fast moving water can knock you off your feet.
Take your emergency kit and try to let your friends and family where you are going.	Don't swim through fast flowing water - you may get swept away or struck by an object in the water.
Avoid contact with flood water - it may be contaminated with sewage, oil, chemicals or other substances.	Don't drive through a flooded area - You may not be able to see abrupt drop-offs and only half a metre of flood water can carry a car away. Driving through flood water can also cause additional damage to nearby property.
If you have to walk in standing water, use a pole or stick to ensure that you do not step into deep water, open manholes or ditches.	Don’t return to your property until the “All Clear” has been given.
Stay away from power lines - electrical current can travel through water. Report power lines that are down to the power company.	Don’t reconnect your power supply until a qualified engineer has checked it. Be alert for gas leaks - do not smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames.
Look before you step - after a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris, which may include broken bottles, sharp objects, nails etc. Floors and stairs covered with mud and debris can be slippery.	Don’t eat any food that has come into contact with flood water.