People in the South East would rescue pets ahead of photos or gadgets from their home before it flooded, an Environment Agency survey revealed today.
Despite the fact that more than half (55 per cent) of those questioned said they felt that there was little or nothing they could do to protect their home from a flood, simple steps to prepare can help reduce the risk of damage. One in six properties in England is at risk from flooding, and the Environment Agency is urging all homeowners and businesses to visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood to check their flood risk and to sign up for free river or coastal flood warnings.
The survey asked what one possession people would save. Pets ranked highly (23 per cent) – above photos (15 per cent) and gadgets (14 per cent).
Only 34 per cent felt that they could reduce the risk of flooding to their home. However, preparing a flood plan and raising electrical sockets could reduce risk of damage.
On the eve of the second anniversary of the devastating floods in Cumbria, and one year on from flooding in Cornwall, the Environment Agency is urging people to be aware of the risks a flood might pose.
Phil Rothwell, the Environment Agency’s Head of Flood Strategy, said: “This survey shows that people are, understandably, concerned about losing their personal possessions during a flood. But there are some simple steps that can be taken to reduce this fear. Everyone should check the Environment Agency’s website to see if their house is in a flood risk area and to find out what they can do to prepare for flooding – such as signing up for free river and sea flood warnings.”
Tony Woodley, RSPCA Inspectorate Communications and Liaison Officer, said: “Pets are a much loved part of families so it is natural that they would feature high up a flood rescue list. For animal owners who live in areas at risk from high water, we urge people to keep informed of Environment Agency warnings and take steps to ensure their pets and livestock are kept safe, for example moving them to higher ground when necessary.”
More than 300 flood defence schemes across the country have been completed or upgraded in the past three years by the Environment Agency, local authorities and internal drainage boards. Some of the big projects in the South East included a £60m sea defence at Dymchurch which protects the Kent coastline including Rye.
Every £1 spent on protecting communities from flooding saves £8 spent repairing damage.
ENDS
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Environment Agency news releases, both national and regional, can be found on its web site: www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Notes to Editors:
- Fieldwork was conducted between 28 October and 3 November 2011.
- Interviews were carried out face-to-face, in home, using computer assisted personal interviewing machines, as part of the Ipsos MORI Omnibus.
- Results are weighted to the equivalent population profile.
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