Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to take care in flood water.
There are currently several areas across Berkshire that are subject to flood alerts and properties nearest to the River Kennet in Burghfield, Southcote, Coley and Holybrook have been given a flood warning by the Environment Agency (16/01/2020).
Find out whether your area has been given a flood alert or flood warning.
- If you are driving, please do not attempt to drive through flood water. Just 30cm of moving flood water is enough to make your car float and potentially move you into deeper water where you could become stranded.
- Do not let children play in flood water as it could be deeper than it seems.
- Ensure good ventilation if using portable indoor heating appliances to dry out indoor spaces – do not use petrol or diesel generators or other similar fuel-driven equipment indoors: the exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide which can kill.
- Do not turn on gas or electrics if they have got wet – only turn them on when they have been checked by a qualified technician.
- Do not move or ignore road closures signs – they are there for your safety, so please do not ignore them.
For more advice on what to do to prepare for flooding or if you have been flooded, the Environment Agency and Public Health England have produced a Flooding: Advice for the Public guide.
If available for your neighbourhood, sign up for free flood warning messages or call the Environment Agency’s Floodline: 0345 988 1188.