Wet Weather Advice

Stay safe in wet and stormy weather by following our wet weather safety advice:

• Do not drive through flood water. Just 30cm of water is enough to make your car float. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find another route;
• Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds, so keep your speed down and always keep a safe distance;
• Give yourself more time to react while driving – reduced visibility and wet roads will increase your stopping distance in the event of an accident. In wet weather, the stopping distance will be at least double;
• Do not move or ignore road closures signs – they are there for your safety, so please do not ignore them;
• Manholes may be dangerous – during flooding, it can be difficult to see what is under the water, but the rain can add pressure underneath the manholes;
• Check the tread and pressure of your tyres, that all your lights work and the condition of your windscreen and wipers before you set off.

• Do not turn on gas or electrics if they have got wet – only turn them on when they have been checked by a qualified technician;
• Ensure good ventilation if using portable indoor heating appliances to dry out indoor spaces – do not use petrol or diesel generators or other similar fuel-driven equipment indoors: the exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide which can kill;
• Make sure people and pets are upstairs if your building does begin to flood;
• Stay inside during a flood and call 999 if you are in danger – for example if it is affecting electrics;
• Sign up for Flood Warnings on the Government’s website to be notified when flooding may occur in your area.

For more information on how to stay safe while you’re out and about, visit our Out and About webpage.