Firms urged to draw up flood plans as Met Office predicts wet summer

Business have been urged to ensure they have a flood plan in place as the Met Office yesterday warned that the summer could be wetter than average.

Forecasters said that a repeat of last year's floods is unlikely, but long range predictions suggest that rainfall in North West Europe will be average or above average, while temperatures will be above average. However, they stressed that long term predictions are notoriously difficult to get right and nothing can be ruled out this far in advance.

The predictions follow calls from the Environment Agency for firms to do more to protect themselves against the risk of flooding.

"By taking action to prepare in advance for flooding, most businesses can save as much as 90 per cent on the cost of lost stock and moveable equipment, as well as preventing a lot of trouble and stress," said Jackie Banks, national flood risk manager at the Agency. "Often it's the simple things, such as removing electrical equipment from the basement or keeping important documents in a higher place, that can save companies money."

Implementing a flood plan can also help firms gain insurance cover and help enhance their credibility with employees, customers and suppliers, she added.

The Environment Agency said that with many of the 7,000 businesses flooded last summer having never been inundated before all firms should use the agency's free online postcode checker to find out whether or not their property is at risk.

It also noted that with the incidence of surface water floods caused by drainage systems becoming inundated increasing even firms that are not at risk from river or coastal flooding should ensure they have a flood plan in place.

The agency said such plans should include a list of important contacts, a map showing key equipment, protective materials and service shut-off points, and basic strategies to protect property, ensure staff safety and minimise business disruption if a flood occurs.