How to help you and your family prepare for a flood:

• read GOV.UK's advice on preparing for a flood
• read the National Flood Forum's advice on preparing for a flood
• find out if your property is at risk by checking GOV.UK's flood maps
• if you're at risk, sign up for the GOV.UK's flood warning service
• use GOV.UK's flood warnings and the Met Office weather warnings
• make a flood plan, you can use GOV.UK's template flood plan
• check your buildings and contents insurance policy to make sure you're covered for flooding and that you've not underestimated the value of your home contents
• know how to turn of the water, gas and electricity, ask your supplier for advice if you're not sure, put stickers on the taps so you can see them easily
• plan what you will do with pets, cars, furniture, electrical equipment and garden furniture
• move food and valuables upstairs
• learn how to use sandbags and other flood prevention equipment
• arrange joint flood defences with neighbours and make a community flood plan