Flooding can take you by surprise. Check if you're at risk of flooding and make preparations so you're ready.
Prepare for flooding
You should check if your home is at risk of flooding. You can check the flood maps on the SEPA website.
Consider preparing a flood plan and putting together a flood kit.
A flood kit could contain things like a torch, first aid kit, prescription medicines, waterproof shoes and clothing, rubber gloves, water and snacks, essential pet and children supplies, insurance details and passport details, portable wind-up radio and a list of important contact numbers. You should put the kit somewhere high up.
Flood protection products
During a flood, West Dunbartonshire Council will provide the most at risk properties with sandbags free of charge. These should then be disposed of after the flooding has gone.
You can purchase flood protection products through the council. You might be able to get a discount on their price.
Flood protection products that are useful include flood barriers, airbrick covers and flood skirts. You can read more about the flood protection products available on the West Dunbartonshire Council website.
Flood warnings
You can keep up to date with flood warnings in the area using the SEPA Floodline. Find out more about Floodline on the SEPA website.
You can also find information on severe weather and flooding on the Met Office website.
What to do in a flood
​When flooding is forecast, you should take action to stay safe.
If you can, you should:
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move vehicles out of the flood risk area
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move important documents and valuable items to a safe place
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shut off gas, electricity and water supplies
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make sure all flood protection products are in place and working correctly
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move pets and animals to a safe place and ensure they have enough food and water
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don't use anything electrical.
You should try to avoid the flood water.
After a flood
You should be careful once the flood has gone. Flood waters can be contaminated with harmful bacteria so you should wear appropriate clothing and protection.
Make sure all power and gas supplies are checked by a professional before turning them back on and check with Scottish Water that the water is safe to use.