Be aware of the risks to your property, have you or your immediate neighbours been flooded in any of the recent extreme events.

Make a list ahead of time of what you would like to take with you if you end up having to evacuate and put this list somewhere obvious (e.g., stick it to the fridge). Keep your list simple and easy to read.  It can be hard to concentrate on full sentences whilst also panicking. Work out in advance who will do what.

Make sure that you are insured and have enough cover, check with home contents and building insurers and seek their advice. Photograph all your rooms to make a record of your possessions, this will save time if you need to make a claim

Be aware of the latest news, weather reports and any flood warning in force from the Environment Agency. Also take time to look around you, are the drains flowing, are the fields flooded, are the dykes unusually full.

Make up a family flood plan. Make a flood kit, including a battery/wind up radio, torches, blankets, waterproof clothing, plastic gloves, first aid kit, camera, medications and essential toiletries, include any other personal documents or valuable possessions. Don’t forget your insurance documents, phone and charger and debit cards. You can make up your kit at any time and keep it in a handy, but secure, grab-and-go place. Prepare children’s essentials – will you need nappies, formula, bottles?

Ensure that you understand the flood warning system. Know where you can collect sand bags and sand (better yet – keep some made up at home)

If flooding is imminent, turn off gas, electricity and water at the mains. Unplug electrical items and move them upstairs if possible. Move furniture and any sentimental items upstairs if possible.

Install sandbags and / or flood boards to external doors, cover up air-bricks. Temporary barriers can be made with things like old carpet or tarpaulin

Check in with any vulnerable neighbours living nearby; ensure that they are also prepared

House gutters, gullies and drains should be cleared of debris, leaves etc., to help flood water drain away. Plug sinks/baths and put a sand bag in the toilet bowl to prevent backflow

Ensure safety of pets and animals; make sure you can get to food, pet-carriers and medications. If you are preparing to evacuate, put pets in the car first, then they won’t get under your feet.

Leave before you have to, the Pointon Emergency Plan Working Group will provide a rendezvous point at the Village Hall, the Tin Church or the School. Let your loved ones know you are ok as soon as possible.

Abandoning vehicles: If for some reason you need to abandon a vehicle while evacuating, pull over as far as you can off the road, so you don't block anyone. Do not attempt to drive on flooded roads; your engine may cut out and your bow wave will contribute to additional flooding.