You may find this information useful in the event of severe flooding, such as during heavy rainfall.

Be prepared

Make sure your household insurance is up to date and that you are fully covered for flood damage.

If your property is at high risk of flooding, keep a stock of sand, empty sandbags and plastic sheeting, which you can buy from local DIY stores.

Also keep a list of emergency contacts to hand, such as your local council, Thames Water and the Environment Agency.

When there is a risk of flooding

• Block doors and air vents with plastic sheeting and sandbags. Sandbags are available at most DIY stores. Your local council usually has a limited stock, which they can give out to vulnerable customers.
• Move any valuable or sentimental possessions to a higher level.
• Bring children and pets indoors - do not allow children to play in flood water.
• Monitor flood warnings which are listed on the Environment Agency website and listen to your local radio station for updates.
• Store the following upstairs where possible: warm clothes, torch, batteries, mobile phone, medication, first aid kit, radio, rubber gloves, wellington boots, food and drinking water.
• Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours / residents and make them aware of the flood risk.

If your home floods

If the flooding is from our public sewer system, please call us on 0845 9200 800 (Textphone: 0845 7200 899) and one of our team will be here to help, 24 hours a day.

If life is at risk, call the emergency services on 999.

Otherwise:

• Turn off your gas, electricity and water at the mains.
• Stay in your home if it is safe to do so.
• Do not allow children or pets go into the floodwater - it is very likely that this will be contaminated with sewage, and there may be hidden dangers below the surface of the water.
• Do not lift manhole covers to let floodwater drain away - this can make the situation worse and cause flooding to other properties.

When the flooding has reduced:

• Do not turn on your gas or electricity until the systems have been checked by the suppliers' representatives.
• Do not throw away damaged items until your insurers have inspected them.
• Call us on 0845 9200 800 (Textphone: 0845 7200 899) if your tap water looks or tastes unusual.
• Disinfect all surfaces.
• Ensure your house is well ventilated.
• When clearing up, wear rubber gloves and cover any cuts and grazes.
• Throw away any food that may have been in contact with flood water.
• If you experience symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting after a flooding incident, call your doctor straight away.