Businesses 'cannot afford to ignore flood risk'

The Environment Agency warned that last summer almost 7,000 firms experienced flooding, with the total damage to businesses estimated at around £1.3 billion.

The Agency suggested that the first step any business should take to prepare for further flooding catastrophes was for them to check if their premises were in an area at risk of river or coastal flooding. This could be done using its free online maps - here.

Those at risk could register for a free 'Floodline Warnings Direct' service - providing flood warnings by telephone, mobile, email, fax or pager, whenever flood warnings are issued in their area.

The Environment Agency also encouraged businesses to use its template for developing a flood plan. Even those not at risk of river or coastal flooding could still be affected by surface water flooding, such as when drainage systems could not deal with intense rainfall.

The plan, it said, should include a list of important contacts; a map showing key equipment, protective materials and service shut-off points; as well as basic strategies to protect property - ensuring staff safety and minimising business disruption if a flood occurs.

Long-range forecast?

Another recommendation was that businesses should look at how valuable equipment and stock could be stored above flood level, and whether they should be using any flood protection products.

Environment Agency chief executive Barbara Young said: "We know that small businesses have limited time and resources, but with climate change putting increasing numbers of businesses at risk of flooding, investing some time in preparation now could really pay dividends in the future.

"By checking their flood risk and following our simple preparation guide, businesses can cut the cost of damage by as much as 90% and make sure they are protecting their staff and premises."

This week the Met Office said summer 2008 would be warmer than average, with rainfall near or above average. However, it claimed the risk of exceptional rainfall on the same scale as last summer remained "very low".

However, this time last year the Met Office said summer 2007 would be warmer than average, and that southern parts of the UK would experience "average or below-average rainfall". So much for long-range weather forecasts!

To view the Environment Agency's webpages on preparing a flood plan, click here.