Flooding

The effects of flooding can be devastating to the running of the school. Some schools may be in areas prone to flooding, but whatever the circumstances it is advisable to think about what to do if flooding occurs – whether inside or outside the school. Schools that are maintained by an LEA should discuss procedures with them.

The main thing to consider is how to minimise floodwater entry and damage:

Use sandbags, plywood or metal sheeting placed on the outside of doors, window frames and airbricks.
Seal doors and windows with silicon sealant.
Floodwater can enter through drains, toilets and other outlets such as washing machines. Put plugs into sinks and baths and weigh them down with heavy objects. Place sandbags in the toilet bowls.
Floodwater can contaminate foodstuffs and chemicals such as paints, garden pesticides and household cleaning products. Store any materials like this high up.

Source: Damage Limitation, Environment Agency, 2001.

Accidents Fire Flooding Reducing flood damage After the flood Terrorism Security and personal safety Medical conditions Missing persons	Flooding The effects of flooding can be devastating to the running of the school. Some schools may be in areas prone to flooding, but whatever the circumstances it is advisable to think about what to do if flooding occurs – whether inside or outside the school. Schools that are maintained by an LEA should discuss procedures with them. The main thing to consider is how to minimise floodwater entry and damage: Use sandbags, plywood or metal sheeting placed on the outside of doors, window frames and airbricks. Seal doors and windows with silicon sealant. Floodwater can enter through drains, toilets and other outlets such as washing machines. Put plugs into sinks and baths and weigh them down with heavy objects. Place sandbags in the toilet bowls. Floodwater can contaminate foodstuffs and chemicals such as paints, garden pesticides and household cleaning products. Store any materials like this high up. Source: Damage Limitation, Environment Agency, 2001.	Environment Agency UK Resilience information and advice on flooding
The advice contained on this site should not be taken as an authoritative interpretation of the law. That is a matter for the courts.