Flood preparation

Flood preparation

Flooding action plan leaflet (Pdf 735kb)

Emergency Kit

If you live in a flood area, it is advisable to put together a kit for use in times of flooding or a checklist of items that you need to take with you. This kit may contain:

personal documents
torch
mobile phone
waterproof items, such as rubber gloves and wellington boots
First Aid kit
medicines

Sandbags

In times of flooding, Spelthorne Council may provide sandbags on a priority basis. However, it is not always possible to predict localised flooding accurately and the Council may not be able to reach you in time. Therefore, it is advisable to make alternative arrangements by buying sandbags from builders merchants (listed in the local business directory) or your local DIY store. In an emergency, you can make your own, using strong black bags filled with soil. Sandbags are not a total solution, but will help in reducing the waterflow (as will floorboards slotted over ventilation holes and in doorways). It is also suggested that a sandbag is placed in the toilet and sinks are plugged to prevent backflow.

For guidance on how to stack sandbags effectively and for other tips, the Environment Agency publishes the guide “Damage Limitation” (external website).

Safeguarding
It’s a good idea to know exactly where the stop-valves are for your electricity, gas, and water supplies, so you know where these are before a flood occurs. If you own a car or have pets, plan where to take these during a flood.

What should I do if a flood happens? (external website)

Flood protection
There are certain products that you can use to improve the flood defences of your property, ranging from airbrick covers to door protection boards. The Environment Agency has published a list of suppliers (external website) of Kitemark certified products. You may wish to fit anti-backflow valves to prevent flooding through any plumbing fixture; sinks, toilets, and baths are all liable in times of heavy flood.