Residents and businesses in Renfrewshire are being given advice on how to stay safe should winter weather cause flooding in their area.

With colder, wetter weather approaching, homeowners and businesses are being asked to identify whether their area is at risk of flooding and, if so, ensure they are ready in advance.

As part of its #RenReady campaign, the council are encouraging residents to take proactive steps to avoid flooding damage, including:

• Creating a list of useful numbers such as the council, emergency services, electricity and insurance companies;
• Checking gutters and drains around their property are clear and reporting public drains in need of attention;
• Being ready to switch off gas and electricity supplies should this be required;
• Ensuring everyone living or working in the property knows what to do should flooding occur by creating a Flood Plan;
• Following up to date weather reports so that they’re not caught out by adverse weather.

In the event of severe flooding, residents can check for localised updates via the council website and social media, or via the Floodline Service on 0345 988 1188.

Councillor Cathy McEwan, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: “Unfortunately as winter approaches, this brings darker nights and harsher weather.

“So, it’s important that we are all prepared to deal with the effects of heavy rainfall and know what to do if it arrives, especially if you live in an area prone to flooding.

“As a council, we’re working hard to ensure that areas we know are at risk are prepared in advance by clearing drains and trying to divert the natural flow of water – but we can also provide you with support in an emergency.

“You should create a flood plan so you’re not caught out and do all you can to protect your property from the risk of flooding.

“As always, we’re available to support you and offer advice so please get in touch if you need assistance.”

Renfrewshire Council is working with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) to prepare local people in Renfrewshire, and the SEPA website has information on how best to stay safe, including a postcode map outlining the flood risk in each area.

Vincent Fitzsimons, SEPA’s Head of Hydrology and Flooding Services, said: “It’s really important that people are prepared ahead of the winter, when we often see more flooding.

“While you can sign up for Floodline at any time it’s important you have time to understand what those messages mean – and what you can do in advance of rainfall. We want to encourage people to make the time to visit sepa.org.uk/signup and get registered. If you’re not online you can also call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.

“There’s a wealth of information available at floodlinescotland.org.uk to help you prepare, including what to do before, during or after a flood. There’s advice for your homes, your business and you travel, with links to key sources of information. Don’t wait until flooding’s at your door, sign up to Floodline now and make sure you’re ready before you need to be.”

Across Scotland over 32,000 people have already signed up for Floodline, while Flood Alerts and Warnings are also posted live to SEPA’s website at sepa.org.uk/floodupdates

For more information on winter preparedness, visit: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/readyforwinter.