Returning home after the floods? Find out the latest advice

  • Anglia
Firefighters help evacuate homes Credit: ITV News Anglia

An information leaflet is being distributed in Suffolk offering advice to people thinking about returning home following the floods.

Cllr Colin Law, Leader of Waveney District Council said: "For many, many householders, the receding waters do not mean the end of the situation or the problems they will face.

"The multi-agency response which last night responded to the weather event itself - and which will be watching today's high tides carefully - will be turning its attention to recovery and supporting those communities which have been affected."

See below for the latest advice about returning home:

Safety first

You must make your own decision as to whether it is safe for you and your family.

Check with your gas, electricity and water supplier whether it is safe to return home and whether your supplies have been reconnected.

Gas safety

When you return home, make sure that all appliances were turned off. Water and mud may enter gas systems during a flood. Even if appliances appear to be working normally, the flue or ventilation systems may be affected. For safety reasons it is most important to have appliances inspected by a GAS SAFE registered engineer before they are used for the first time after flooding. If at any time you smell gas call0800 111 999.

Electrical safety

If your electricity meter UKPower Networks main fuse has been flooded, you must ring 0800 783 8866 for essential free information before turning the supply back on. If your property has been flooded but the water has not reached your electricity meter or UKPower Network’s main fuse, it is vital that you contact an accredited electrical contractor to test your internal wiring before turning the supply back on.

Phone your insurance company’s 24-hour EmergencyHelpline as soon as possible. They will be able to provide information on dealing with your claim, and assistance in getting things back to normal.

Remember

Floodwater can be fast moving. If water is still around your home do not walk through fast flowing water in the home or outside – 6 inches of water can knock you off your feet. Be careful of holes and dips when moving around. Use a stick to gauge depth.