NEW research has revealed that Warrington is in the top 10 UK areas where the risk of flooding has increased the most, featuring in 8th place with a 1.74% increase.
Using Government data experts at Utility Bidder have carried out research to reveal the UK areas most at risk of flooding and the areas where the risk of flooding has increased the most and also shared valuable tips homeowners should follow to help protect their properties in the event of a flood.
Of the top 10 UK areas where the risk of flooding has increased the most, six are located in North West England, with a number of serious flooding incidents in Warrington in recent years, in particular Dallam, Penketh, Old Liverpool Road and Lymm.
James Longely, Managing Director at Utility Bidder has commented on the steps homeowners should take in order to protect their properties in the event of a flood:
“In England, 1 in 5 properties are at risk of flooding, which goes to show the importance of being prepared for a flood and protecting your property as much as possible and there are a number of steps homeowners can take if a flood alert has been issued, which will help reduce the damage caused to the property and the contents within it.
It’s important to move all important documents and valuable possessions upstairs in order to keep them away from the incoming water, as well as unplugging any electrical items. It’s also advised that homeowners take pictures of their home before the flood happens, as you can easily prove which damage has been caused as a result of the flood.
Sadly, there’s only so much homeowners can do to protect their properties from flooding, so it’s crucial we all know what to do after a flood has occurred. To begin with, it’s important to ring your insurance company as well as the local council, to make them aware of what has happened. If the flooding is severe and water levels are high, you must stay in a high place until help arrives.”
A Warrington Borough Council spokesperson said: “We understand that flooding has a big impact on residents, communities and businesses. During periods of extreme weather and heavy downpours, we know that people living in areas at risk of flooding may study weather forecasts, which can create ongoing flood anxiety. As lead local flood authority, the council continues to work with its partners, the Environment Agency and United Utilities, to understand the background and effects of flooding and to work together collaboratively to develop and deliver projects aimed at tackling flooding across the Borough.
“Over the past several years, a number of successful schemes have been implemented In Warrington to reduce flood risk, most notably at Reddish Lane, Densham Avenue (Dallam Brook Pumping Station) and Penketh and Whittle Brooks. We were also a partner in the Warrington Flood Risk Management scheme undertaken by the Environment Agency a couple of years ago.
“Going forward, we will continue to work in partnership with the Environment Agency to develop schemes which reduce the risk of flooding in Sankey, Longford and Dallam Brooks. Further information is available on the flood hub at thefloodhub.co.uk/sankeybrookfrmswarrington
“There are a number of things residents and businesses can do to prepare for flooding. Find out if your home is at risk, sign up for flood warnings and be ready to take action. Visit www.gov.uk/flood or call Flood Line on 0345 988 1188 for further information.”
