THIS WEEK, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue is urging residents to make sure they’re prepared for flooding this autumn as heavy rain looms.
Flood Action Week, starting from Monday, October 12, aims to publicise how people can be prepared for floods and increase awareness of the dangers and action which can be taken to prevent or reduce damage.
In recent years, RBFRS has expanded its capabilities to help respond to water incidents, including floods.
The service maintains two dedicated Water Rescue Units based in Reading and Slough, as well as dedicated Tactical Advisers that specialise in flooding.
RBFRS recommends people sign up to get flood warningsfrom the Environment Agency for their local area, and check for flooding on the Government’s website.
Ahead of possible floods, residents are advised to have personal flood plans in place, including keeping a stash of essential items such as spare medication.
If faced with flooding, move all people and pets upstairs in your building, if possible, and do not turn on your gas or electrics if they have gotten wet – only turn them on once they have been checked and cleared by a qualified technician.
Ensure good ventilation if using portable indoor heating appliances to dry out indoor spaces.
Never use petrol or diesel generators or other similar fuel-driven equipment indoors – the exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide which can kill.
Do not drive through flood water – just 30cm of water is enough to make your car float. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find another route.
When driving, do not move or ignore road closure signs, and beware of manholes; during flooding, it can be difficult to see what is under the water, and rain can add pressure underneath the manholes.
Gail Muirhead, Prevention Manager at RBFRS, said: “Floods have devastating consequences, so it’s important to prepare and know what to do when it happens.
“The first step is to sign up to receive flood warnings, so you know when your local area is at-risk.
“In the event of a flood, try to keep people and pets upstairs, if possible, and turn off your gas and electrics to prevent fires from occurring.
“If you or anyone in your household is in danger, don’t hesitate to call 999. For non-emergency advice and support, you can also call Floodline – the Environment Agency’s 24-hour flooding hotline.”
Full details of flooding advice are available via: rbfrs.co.uk/your-safety
