During a flood

Should the worst happen it is vital that you keep yourself and your family safe.

If you are in immediate danger during a flood call 999.

Who does what in a flood?

During a flood event, a number of organisations have different roles and responsibilities. How they respond, and the resources they deploy, will depend on the scale and impact of the flood. This section provides a general overview of who does what.

Local Authorities

Local authorities are classed as Category One Responders under the Civil Contingencies Act. This means they must have plans in place to respond to emergencies and to help control or reduce the impact of flooding.

During a flood, local authorities may:

Provide local advice and information about the incident
Set up rest centres for people who need to evacuate their homes
Arrange temporary shelter or accommodation for those with nowhere else to go
Manage road closures and disruption to local services
Investigate flooding caused by blocked or overflowing drains and sewers
Provide sandbags or other emergency supplies (availability varies by area)

The Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales

The Environment Agency (England) and Natural Resources Wales (Wales) are responsible for building, maintaining, and operating flood defences.
They also issue flood alerts and flood warnings, helping people understand when flooding is expected and what action to take.

Police

The police coordinate the emergency services during major flooding events. They may:

Support evacuations where people are at risk
Help manage public safety and access to affected areas
Assist with road closures and traffic control

Fire and Rescue Services

Fire and Rescue Services are primarily responsible for saving life. Their role may include:

Rescuing people from flooded properties
Assisting with evacuations
Pumping out floodwater in some circumstances
(This service may depend on availability and may involve a charge—contact your local Fire and Rescue Service for advice.)

National Flood Forum

The National Flood Forum Helpline is available Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm

(Hours may change during large flood events)

If you are affected by flooding or worried about what might happen, you don’t have to face it alone. Our friendly, experienced team is here to listen, answer your questions, and provide clear, practical advice to help you prepare for flooding and recover afterwards.

We can talk through your situation, help you understand your options, and guide you towards organisations and services that may be able to offer further support.

Please note: the National Flood Forum does not provide sandbags or physical assistance during flood events. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 999.

Things to remember:

If you are at risk of flooding, it can be helpful to have a simple Action Plan in place. Always follow the advice of the emergency services, as their guidance may change as conditions develop.

If you are advised to stay in your property, plan ahead to move upstairs in good time, taking essential items with you. Above all, keep safe and keep warm.

Considering health and hygiene during flooding

Floodwater may be contaminated, particularly with untreated sewage. Even after floodwater has receded, contamination can remain and may pose a health risk unless sensible precautions are taken.

	Protective clothing Wear rubber boots and gloves when entering flooded or recently flooded areas, both inside and outside the property.
	Cuts and wounds Wash any cuts or grazes thoroughly and cover them with waterproof plasters. Anyone who receives a puncture wound during flood clean‑up should ask a doctor whether a tetanus booster is required.
	Avoid floodwater where possible Small children, pregnant women, and people with existing health conditions should avoid floodwater and flooded areas until clean‑up is complete and the area is safe.
	Illness and medical advice If you feel unwell after flooding, or if you accidentally ingest (swallow) contaminated water or mud and become ill, contact your GP. Make sure you tell them that your home has been flooded, as this may help with diagnosis and treatment.

DO

Turn off the electricity supply to your property and keep it switched off until a qualified electrician or the utility company has checked the electrics.
Use extreme caution around electricity. Do not use any electrical switches, sockets, or appliances until they have been inspected—especially if they have come into contact with floodwater.
Once electrical safety checks have been completed, use a circuit breaker (RCD) with any electrical equipment used for cleaning, repairs, or ongoing work in the property.
Be alert for fallen or damaged power lines. Do not approach them under any circumstances, as there is always a serious risk of electric shock.
Turn off the gas supply to appliances that have been flooded (or where their vents/flues may have been affected).

DO NOT

Approach any structure that maybe unsafe.
Do not approach fast‑flowing water or deep standing water. Swiftly flowing water presents a serious drowning risk, regardless of your ability to swim.
Do not underestimate shallow floodwater. Even shallow standing water can be dangerous, particularly for small children.
Do not rely on cars or other vehicles for protection. Floodwater can quickly destabilise vehicles and make them uncontrollable.
If you must enter floodwater, do not rush. Move slowly and carefully, wear strong footwear, and use a stick or pole to check for hidden hazards such as holes, uneven ground, or sharp objects.
Do not drive through floodwater unless absolutely unavoidable. As little as 6 inches (15 cm) of fast‑flowing water can sweep a 4×4 vehicle off the road.