Direct Line Offers Pre-Flood Advice to Homeowners
Following advice from the Environment Agency that higher than normal ‘spring’ tides are expected on Britain’s coasts this week, Direct Line is offering advice to homeowners in high risk areas on minimising the impact of flooding.
The tides on the 7, 8, 9 and 10 October will be around four centimetres higher than normal for this time of year. Although not enough to cause a threat on their own, if these tides are combined with stormy weather or heavy rain, there could be a greater chance of flooding.
If your home is flooded, you should contact your home insurer as soon as you can. Direct Line has a 24 hour emergency helpline 0845 601 3004 to assist customers in the event of a flood and a network of fully-trained claims handlers is on hand to visit homes and provide help advice on the next steps to take.
While insuring your home and possessions is essential to safeguard property, it makes sense for homeowners to take steps to limit any damage that might occur in the unlikely event of a flood:
· Find out if your home is in a flood risk area and be aware of flood warnings on your local TV and radio station. The Environment Agency has a 24 hour information service, Floodline, tel: 0845 988 1188 and regular updates on its website: www.environment-agency.gov.uk
· Store important documents, including insurance policy details and useful contact numbers in a watertight bag in a dry accessible place, preferably upstairs
· Make up a flood emergency kit and keep it in a safe place. Include key personal documents, a torch and portable radio with spare batteries, warm clothing, blankets, rubber boots and gloves, cleaning equipment, disinfectant and detergent, heavy duty refuse bags, a first aid kit and essential medication
· Park your car in a safe place, preferably on higher ground
· Be prepared to move valuable items, such as furniture and ornaments to a safe, dry place at short notice
· Be prepared to switch off electricity and gas in the event of flood water entering your home
· Ensure your home is properly maintained: clear gutters at least once a year, make sure water tanks and pipes are lagged and repair any damaged tiles or brickwork to prevent further damage in the event of a storm
Direct Line Home Insurance offers free tips and advice to homeowners to help them be better prepared in the event of flooding or storms. This advice can be accessed online at http://www.directline.com/home/Storms_floods.pdf
For more information, log on to www.directline.com/home
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Carmel McCarthy/Direct Line Press Office
0208 256 2178
Email: carmel.mccarthy@directline.com
Direct Line Insurance plc, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Calls may be recorded. Conditions apply.
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