Brits would put furry friends first in floods says EA

The Environment Agency's (EA) most recent survey regarding flood risk found, when it comes to flooding, UK homeowners would put their pets before possessions.


In fact, 23% of respondents when asked what one item they would save in the event of a flood, chose their pet. Laptops came second with 10%, 3% would save their jewellery and 1% would grab their wallet.

Twice as many women as men said they’d rescue their photo collection, while most men said they’d prioritise gadgets over photos or jewellery.

However, there was a serious aspect to the poll, that highlighted only 37% of home and business owners felt they could do a fair amount or more to prevent the risk of flooding, despite one in six properties being at risk.

The survey findings, released today, the two-year anniversary of the Cumbrian floods, are being used by the EA to encourage property owners to prepare a flood plan and check insurance policies as well as consider more concrete measures such as raising electrical sockets.

EA head of flood strategy Phil Rothwell explained: “The survey shows that people are, understandably, concerned about losing their personal possessions during a flood. But there are some simple steps that can be taken to reduce this fear. Everyone should check the Environment Agency’s website to see if their house is in a flood-risk area and to find out what they can do to prepare for flooding – such as signing up for free river and sea flood warnings.”

Will Parsons

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