Are you prepared for flooding?

Flood awareness events in Rochdale – are you prepared for flooding?

A flood awareness event and river clean up is to be held on 28 November 2013 to educate and support communities at risk of flooding in Rochdale.

The Environment Agency, Rochdale Borough Council, Manchester University, United Utilities, National Flood Forum, Groundwork and Faiths4Change will be in Wardleworth Community Centre in Rochdale between 10am and 3pm to provide information and guidance on recognising the signs of flooding, how to prepare and what actions to take if flooding occurs.

Lynsey Cottle, Environment Agency Engagement Officer, said: “Rochdale has a history of flooding and although we can’t prevent flooding entirely we can help communities become more resilient. It is important that people understand the dangers of flooding and what action they should take should flooding occur.

Rochdale also has a big problem with fly tipping in rivers and streams which greatly increases the risk of flooding and puts people at further risk. Our officers are out as part of this event to clear some of the waste but it is important that people play their part in reducing flood risk by getting rid of their waste responsibly.”

The event is part of the Rochdale Pathfinder project which aims to raise awareness of how flooding can affect lives, increase local awareness of flood risk and improve community resilience.

For further details about the event or for information about flood risk in Rochdale, contact Lynsey Cottle from the Environment Agency on 07917 246 493 or email Lynsey.cottle@environment-agency.gov.uk

Knowing your flood risk is the first step to protecting your family and property. Once you know the risks, you can put measures in place to stay safe.

For more information and advice go to www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood, contact the Environment Agency’s National Customer Contact Centre on 03708 506 506 or email FlashFloodNorth@environment-agency.gov.uk