Winter Watch: how to prepare for a flood

Brooklin Claims Consultants will act quickly after a flood to get your home dry and work to get the insurance claim you deserve.

As a UK leading loss assessor, we’ve seen too many times when a home or property owner could have taken steps to prepare for a flood, and limit the damage suffered.

Brooklin Claims Consultants Managing Director Stefanie Thwaite said: “Preparing for possible flood is very important, especially in high-risk areas. If the worst happens, call Brooklin Claims Consultants and we’ll work quickly to get your property dry, manage that vital insurance claim, and oversee all repairs and renovations.”

How to prepare for a flood…

• Sign up for official flood warnings via the gov.uk website and/or call Floodline 0345 988 1188 – a 24-hour service for information and advice.

• We all have personal items that cannot be replaced, like photo albums. Don’t wait until there’s a flood to move them. Find a safe place to keep them dry.

• Write a flood plan: What will you do if you must leave your home? How do you shut off gas and electricity? What will you do with your pets? Where can you get sandbags? What do you need to move or to take with you?

• Prepare a flood kit:
  o keep a list of contact numbers (your home insurance provider, gas/electricity companies and personal contacts).
  o Warm, waterproof clothing and blankets, water, food, essential medication, gloves, wellingtons, a torch, baby food/care items, pet food and pet carriers. All in a waterproof bag if you have one.

If a flood is expected in your area:
• Move furniture, electricals, sentimental items and important documents to safety. Move your car away from risk.
• Take up rugs and carpets if you can and remove curtains.
• Turn off electricity, gas and water supplies.
• Put sandbags in place and fix flood boards to doors.

What to do after a flood
• When it’s safe to return after a flood, take care when entering as there may be hidden dangers in floodwater such as sharp objects and sewage pollution.
• If your supply hasn’t been switched off at the mains, do not touch sources of electricity when standing in flood water.
• Get a qualified electrician to come to the property to switch off the power.
Don’t manage your insurance claim alone – speak to one of our experts for free and under no obligation: 0800 592 144 (freephone).

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