Be Prepared

You are responsible for preparing and protecting your property so it’s vital you take steps to insure and protect your home and possessions. Look at your local council’s website for information on their emergency plans and find out what they and other emergency responders do for the whole community.

The following sections give good advice about what you should do before, during and after an emergency to help you cope with it better.

Flooding

One in six properties in the UK are at risk of flooding.  There are a number of things you can do in advance to prepare for flooding.

Building evacuation

If the emergency services tell you to evacuate you should do so. Refusing to leave will put you and those trying to help you at risk.

Hot weather

During extended periods of hot weather, people and animals are at risk from the effects of heat. Steps to reduce the risks.

Electricity failure

During extended periods of hot weather, people and animals are at risk from the effects of heat. Steps to reduce the risks.

Fire

Practical advice on steps you can take to avoid a fire starting in your home and how to prepare when there is a fire.

Severe weather

There is a lot you can do to reduce the effect and potential cost of damage caused by severe weather.

Infectious diseases

There are a number of infectious diseases that may lead to localised, national or even international outbreaks.

Gas

If you smell gas, call Wales & West Utilities. You can call the gas emergency number at any time, day or night, 365 days a year.

Extreme Cold/Snow

Practical advice on steps you can take to prepare for severe cold or prolonged periods of snow and what to do when these arrive.

High winds

Practical advice on steps you can take to prepare for high winds and steps you can take to minimise the impact of high winds.

Loss of Power

Disruptions to power supplies may be rare, and are often linked to severe weather events. Steps that will help you to stay safe.

Loss of water

In the event of an incident which adversely affects the supply of water, water companies will distribute alternative water supplies.