Flood Action Week: Protecting Your Home from the Rising Risks of Flooding

The increase in severe weather events has put more households and businesses at risk of flooding, especially following the wettest 18 months on record in the UK. This campaign serves as a reminder of the critical steps we can all take to protect our homes, communities, and families. With over 5.5 million properties across England now at risk, preparation and resilience are essential.

Flood Action Week aims to give people the tools they need to manage flood risks effectively, reducing potential damage and disruption. Let’s explore the steps you can take to be proactive in the face of increased flood risks.

Why Flood Action Week?

This initiative by the Environment Agency began as a response to increasingly frequent and intense flooding, driven by climate change and extreme weather patterns. Recent events, such as Storm Babet in 2023, have demonstrated the scale and intensity of the challenge, with record rainfall leading to significant flooding in many regions. The damage was substantial despite the Environment Agency’s protection efforts, which saved nearly 100,000 properties from flooding. However, as around 2,150 properties were still flooded, it highlighted the need for increased preparedness across communities.

This year’s Flood Action Week is particularly timely as we continue to witness unpredictable weather patterns and an increase in severe storms. The campaign provides clear actions for households to take charge and make small but significant changes.

Steps to Prepare and Protect Your Home from Flooding

Flood Action Week has outlined straightforward actions for property owners, families, and businesses to increase resilience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can take proactive measures:

1. Check Your Flood Risk

Knowing your risk level is the first and most crucial step. The Environment Agency offers a free online tool where you can check your property’s flood risk. This service provides details about the likelihood of flooding from rivers, the sea, surface water, and reservoirs, and offers insights into the possible causes of flooding specific to your location. 

2. Sign Up for Flood Warnings

The Environment Agency’s flood warning system notifies you if a flood is expected in your area. You can sign up for alerts by phone, text, or email, giving you valuable time to prepare. This service is available to around 1.6 million properties and covers various flood risks across the country.

3. Prepare a Flood Kit

If you’re in a high-risk area, a flood kit is essential. Pack essentials like bottled water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, important documents, and a torch. Keep your kit in an easily accessible, elevated location. The kit should include contact information for utility companies so you can quickly turn off services in an emergency. For more guidance, visit Prepare a Flood Plan.

4. Know How to Safeguard Your Property

Simple but effective steps can protect your home’s structure and valuables. Consider installing flood resilience measures, such as flood-resistant doors and self-sealing airbricks. Flood Resilience grants, part of the Environment Agency’s programme with Flood Re, offer funding for such adaptations, helping homeowners reduce repair costs and damage. More information on protective measures and funding can be found at Flood Resilience Advice.

5. Plan Your Household’s Flood Response

Establish a plan that includes all members of your household. Identify a safe place to move during a flood, and plan how you’ll communicate with family or neighbours. If you have vulnerable family members or neighbours, consider how you can assist them during an emergency. You can find a guide for creating a plan here.

6. Take Extra Care on the Roads

Driving through floodwater can be dangerous, and even 30cm of moving water is enough to sweep away most cars. If you must drive, leave plenty of distance between vehicles and proceed cautiously through large puddles and flooded areas. Check for alternative routes if flooding has closed roads. For more on safe driving during floods, visit Driving in Wet Weather.

7. Consider Property Insurance with Flood Protection

Flood Action Week highlights the importance of reviewing insurance policies to ensure flood coverage is adequate. The Build Back Better scheme by Flood Re and the Government offers up to £10,000 for flood resilience measures as part of household insurance claims. Learn more about flood insurance options here.

8. Stay Informed and Be Ready to Act

Regular updates from the Environment Agency and local councils will help you stay informed about any immediate threats or policy changes that could impact your flood risk. Taking action early can reduce potential flood damage by 40%, underscoring the importance of this proactive approach.

Moving Forward: A Shared Responsibility

Flooding can have devastating effects not only on property but also on mental health. The Environment Agency recognises this, noting that recovery is often prolonged, with stress and anxiety lasting well beyond the physical repairs. By participating in Flood Action Week, we can all contribute to a more prepared community. Whilst the government continues to invest in flood defences, individual action is essential.

Flood Action Week reminds us of the power of simple, informed steps. Knowing your flood risk, signing up for alerts, and having a family plan can significantly reduce the impact of floods. As climate patterns evolve, taking these steps ensures we’re better equipped to face the challenges ahead. Let’s work together to protect our homes, our communities, and our future.