Be prepared for flooding

In this section

• Burst water mains
• Before a flood: Prepare in advance
• Actions during a flood risk

Burst water mains

Burst water mains can cause sudden flooding in specific areas, affecting roads, homes, and water supply. Even though it's different from flooding caused by heavy rain, it can still cause just as many problems.

Be prepared

• Find your stop tap so you can turn off your water quickly if a pipe bursts.
• Move important items off the floor, especially in basements or ground-floor rooms, to protect them from water damage.
• Look out for warning signs like low water pressure or water pooling in the street (these could mean a burst water main).

Before a flood: Prepare in advance

Floods can strike quickly, but taking steps ahead of time can greatly reduce the impact on your home and family. By understanding your risk and putting a plan in place, you'll be better equipped to stay safe and recover more easily if flooding occurs.

Understand your risk

• Sign up for flood warnings from the Environment Agency to get alerts about potential flooding in your area.
• Check your flood risk and access flood history reports to understand your local situation.
• Request a flood risk report if you've had work done to protect your home - this can help with insurance.

Make a flood plan

• Create a personal flood plan outlining what to do, where to go, and who to contact in an emergency.
• Know your drainage system and check it regularly to prevent blockages.
• Ensure your planning application includes a flood risk assessment - visit GOV.UK for guidance.

Protect your property

• Make your property more flood-resilient by using permeable surfaces and sustainable drainage systems
• Buy flood protection products from the National Flood Forum (Blue Pages), which lists independent products and services.
• Avoid using sandbags they are less effective and can quickly become contaminated. Choose specially designed flood protection products for better safety.
• If you're paving your garden, consider using permeable materials. The Royal Horticultural Society provides helpful guidance on choosing and installing permeable paving.

Insurance

• Read GOV.UK's guidance on flood insurance to make sure you're properly covered.

Actions during a flood risk

If there is a risk of flood near you, allow sufficient time to evacuate your property before it becomes surrounded by water. If you believe there is an immediate risk to life, call 999.

Protecting your home

• Block doors and air vents with plastic sheets and duct tape.
• Store drinking water in clean containers.
• Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies (if you can safely).
• Have a grab bag available if you need to live in a different part of the house or move into a neighbour's house.
• Visit the Flooding section on GOV.UK to learn how to prepare for a flood and get help during and after.

Protecting yourself and others

• Keep children, vulnerable people and pets out of floodwater.
• Avoid walking or driving through floodwater, even shallow water can be dangerous.
• Be aware of other hazards such as fallen power lines and trees.
• Wash hands thoroughly after contact with floodwater.

In an emergency

• Allow time to evacuate before water surrounds your property.
• Visit the National Flood Forum website for advice on staying safe during a flood
• Speak to a Floodline adviser on 0345 988 1188 for support and guidance.

 Go to next section: Who to contact during a flood