Advice after a flood

make sure the property is safe before you enter
switch off the electricity supply at the fuse box, if it is safe to do so. If there is evidence of water inside the fuse box or if there are signs of arcing or overheating, seek professional advice
unplug damaged electrical appliances and move all portable ones away from the area affected by flooding
arrange for other services, such as gas, to be switched off. Don't turn on gas or electricity supplies without checks being undertaken by a competent person. Ask your insurer for advice about re-commissioning supplies and checking any appliances which may have been affected.
remember to take care of your own wellbeing and don't try to tackle everything at once
flooding health guidance and advice for the public can be found on the Public Health England website (external link) This includes advice on, contaminated flood water, the danger posed by carbon monoxide fumes from the indoor use of generators to dry out buildings, mental health following flooding, and mould and health
follow advice on cleaning up after a flood on the Flood Guidance website (external link) and remember to protect yourself and your family
discard any food that has been in contact with flood water
contact your insurer and retain damaged goods You may need evidence of the items damaged by the flood. Try to store all items for possible inspection by your insurers, prior to disposal

use candles to guide you when entering the property
assume the electricity in a flooded property is off
touch any electrical appliances, cable or equipment if you are standing in flood water or if they are sitting in water
use any mains powered electrical appliances in areas affected by flooding until advised by a registered electrician that it is safe to do so
go near any exposed wiring, as it may still be live
start to clean up or carry out repairs until you are sure it is safe to do so

Flooding and drainage