If your flooded

DO NOT switch on electricity, gas or water until these have been inspected.
DO NOT use food that has been in contact with flood water.

Do not use electricity or gas without confirming with the relevant supplier that it is safe. Check with your water provider that water supplies are fit for drinking. Do not use any electrical appliance that has become damp until properly dried out and checked by a qualified electrical engineer.

Before you start cleaning up, take photographs of the damage and mark the highest level of the floodwater on your wall. This will help you make your insurance claim.

Assume that flood water contains sewage. Refrigerators, deep freezers, cookers or store cupboards affected by floodwater should not be used for food storage or processing until properly cleaned, disinfected and dried.

Ensure you hire the correct equipment; air movers, heaters, dehumidifiers & air purifiers all available 24/7 from Climate Hire and Sales, tel; 0845 6 004499

Fitted carpets should be lifted and to avoid permanent damage it is recommended that they be dried professionally.

Rugs and mats will not impede drying. Check under floorboards after six months and again after 12 months for signs of dry rot. If you find fungus seek expert advice immediately.

Oil all hinges and locks to prevent seizing up. Do not be in a hurry to redecorate - it can take months for complete drying out. Before you decorate, treat the walls with an anti-mould solution obtainable from builders merchants or DIY stores.

It is recommended that, before incurring any major expenditure on remedial measures including the replacement of furnishings and floor coverings, you inform your insurers and obtain their written agreement.

Floodwater can make buildings unsafe so check for new cracks in walls.

After a flood, always clean and disinfect everything that has potentially come into contact with the floodwater, to avoid potential infections or other illnesses. For removal of airborne mould spores contact climate hire 0845 6 004499 for air purification equipment.

Recovering from flooding is a highly stressful time, take care of yourself and your family. Ensure that you prepare and have food reserves in case of further problems.

Check for Flood Warnings in your area, be prepared !