Actions to take now
You should do what you can now to prepare for a flood, especially if you live in a flood risk area.
Do not wait until a flood happens, you may not have time.
- Check if your home is at risk of flooding.
- Sign up for flood warnings from rivers and watercourses – remember the river levels are only for certain watercourses. Flooding is still possible from other smaller brooks and surface water that's run off from the ground and, therefore, it's important to watch or listen to the weather too.
- Check river and sea levels for Rochdale.
- Follow Met Office weather reports on social media or email reports.
- Find out where and how to turn off your gas, electricity and water supplies.
- Accessing flood insurance – tips if you're experiencing problems buying insurance.
- Check your home insurance policy and ensure you're covered for flooding. The National Flood Forum can advise you about flood insurance.
- Make a list of useful information and telephone numbers, including your GP details, your insurance company's emergency phone line, your insurance policy number and the names of any prescriptions or medication you have.
- Make a personal flood plan. View a personal flood plan template.
- Prepare an emergency grab bag, in case you need to leave your home in a hurry. Store it upstairs and include items such as essential documents, phone chargers, a change of clothes, non-perishable food, water, torch, glasses and cash. If you've got a baby, also include nappies and baby food.