As flood season nears in Britain, authorities and experts are urging households to take proactive measures in preparation for a potentially severe winter marked by frequent storms and heavy rainfall. This heightened risk is linked to the advancing climate crisis and the impact of a record-breaking El Niño weather pattern.

Residents are advised to enrol in local council flood alert schemes and register with the Environment Agency’s flood warning system to receive timely updates. Community-level preparation is also emphasized, including identifying vulnerable individuals who may need assistance and establishing neighbourhood flood response plans to ensure coordinated action during emergencies.

Tracey Garrett, chief executive of the National Flood Forum, highlighted the disruptive nature of flooding but stressed that communities working in tandem with households and local authorities can significantly improve regional resilience.

Protective steps start with external maintenance of properties. Mary Long-Dhonau, founder of the Flood Mary campaign, recommends inspecting outdoor brickwork and mortar for cracks or deterioration, which can allow floodwater to penetrate buildings. She suggests using breathable waterproof sealants on external walls and ensuring gutters are clear and functional to direct water away effectively.

Another practical suggestion involves the installation of water butts to collect rainwater before it reaches the ground. By emptying these containers ahead of anticipated rainfall, residents can increase their capacity to store water, thereby reducing the volume entering drainage systems.

Garden and outdoor surfaces also play a crucial role in flood mitigation. Hard impermeable surfaces like concrete, paving, and artificial grass hinder water absorption, accelerating runoff into drains. Incorporating permeable materials, rain gardens, or planted areas—even by removing a few paving stones to add water-absorbing vegetation—can improve drainage and lessen flood risks.

Inside the home, experts recommend preparing a “flood to-do list” detailing necessary actions such as turning off gas and electricity supplies and relocating valuable items to safer locations. Maintaining a “flood box” stocked with essential items—including a head torch, flood tape, plastic sheeting, and absorbent cushions—can help homeowners respond more effectively during an incident.

Physical barriers can prevent water entry through doors and windows. Flood doors offer strong protection despite their higher cost, while floor barriers may serve as a temporary measure if installed ahead of floodwaters. In urgent situations, sealing openings with flood or aluminium tape can help reduce water ingress.

One particularly damaging consequence of flooding is sewage backup through toilets. Non-return valves fitted to drainage systems offer the best defence. Alternatively, manual solutions such as toilet bungs or stoppers can be used, though they require on-site installation during floods. In emergencies, Long-Dhonau suggested an improvised method of deflating a child’s football, inserting it into the toilet drain, reinflating it, and securing the seat with tape to prevent sewage overflow.

With flood season only weeks away, taking these preparatory steps can mitigate damage and enhance community safety in the face of increasing extreme weather risks.