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By amy

December 18, 2005

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is urging people who live, work or travel in Scotland’s flood risk areas, to use the agency’s Floodline service to be prepared in case of flooding throughout the winter period.

Floodline - 0845 988 1188 – is a 24 hours a day, 365 days a year public information service that provides Scotland-wide flood alert information through Flood Watch, more specific alerts for areas covered by Flood Warning schemes, and general advice on how to prepare for and cope with flooding.

Floods can occur at any time of the year, but tend to be more common in winter because of increased rainfall and snowmelt. The shorter day length means that there is a higher chance of floods occurring unobserved in the darkness.

While flooding is a natural occurrence which cannot be entirely prevented, SEPA is encouraging people take simple steps to limit the damage and distress it can cause. 

John Anderson, Hydrology Unit Manager said: "When floods strike the effect can be devastating to householders and businesses alike. Simple measures such as knowing whether any flood alerts have been issued and thinking about where to move valuable or sentimental items can reduce damage and disruption and lead to a quicker recovery when flooding does occur. Don't wait until you are flooded, act now and be prepared. Make sure you know in advance where to get help if flooding does threaten your home, particularly if you are going to be away for the holidays.  Have a contingency plan that can be put into action if the worst happens.”

SEPA hydrologists constantly monitor weather forecasts and river levels round the clock, and live updates can be accessed through Floodline on 0845 988 1188 and on SEPA’s website,  www.sepa.org.uk/flooding.  Information and advice on how to prepare for flooding can also be found on the SEPA flooding pages or by calling Floodline for an information pack.

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