If you live near a reservoir, this guide is for you. Even though reservoir flooding is very unlikely to happen you might need to know what to do in case of an emergency.
Preparing for reservoir flooding
There are steps you can take in advance to prepare for an emergency. To be prepared for reservoir flooding you should:
- Know your risk. Use the reservoir flood maps to see if you live or work in an area that might be affected by reservoir flooding;
- Plan where to go if you get caught in a reservoir flood;
- Put together a grab bag or flood kit of things you might need in an emergency;
- Know who you would need to contact and how;
- Be vigilant and be prepared to act quickly to get yourself to safety.
There are also lots of things you can do to protect you home or business from all types of flooding:
What to do in an emergency
Reservoir flooding could be very different from other forms of flooding. It could happen with little or no warning and you may need to evacuate immediately. Seeking refuge from floodwaters upstairs could be unsafe. You may need to react before emergency services can reach you. It is important to:
- Keep yourself and others clear of danger. Move away from the reservoir, keeping to higher ground, if you can do so safely;
- Make sure 999 has been called if people are injured or if there is a threat to life;
- Do not walk or drive through floodwater;
- Follow the advice of emergency services in the area;
- Try to remain calm, think before acting and try to reassure others;
- Check for injuries - remembering to help yourself before attempting to help others.
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