3 Villages Flood Group
Here to help when needed

Can’t get help because of floodwater?

One of the things most often asked of the 3vfg is if we are flooded in and can’t get out because of surrounding floods, how do I get help in an emergency?

That’s a fantastic and important question! It’s completely understandable why people worry about getting help when they’re cut off by floodwater—it can feel very isolating.

The great news is that there is a robust system in place to make sure you can get assistance, even when the roads are flooded. You are never unreachable in an emergency.

📞 How to Get Emergency Help When Flooded

The most important takeaway is that your first step remains the same: Dial 999.

When you call, simply tell the operator that you are in an area that is flooded. The emergency services will then immediately contact the local Emergency Planning Team (EPT). Website link

The EPT is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and has multiple ways to reach you, even through deep water:

• Off-Road Vehicles: They can dispatch teams using Wessex 4×4 vehicles to navigate flooded roads.
• Boats: Small inflatable boats can be used to get past the floodwater directly to your property.
• Air Support: In extreme cases where the situation is critical, a Helimed (helicopter) team can be deployed.

In short, they have a variety of trained teams and equipment ready to deal with emergencies of all kinds and will decide on the best method to get to you and help.

💧 The Teams Behind Emergency Planning in Somerset

The effort is coordinated by several local groups working together to support community safety and resilience:

• Somerset Prepared: This is the main hub for community resilience in Somerset. It’s a multi-agency partnership that offers valuable resources like home emergency plans, advice, training, and support to help residents and communities prepare.
  • Website: www.somersetprepared.org.uk
• Somerset Council’s Civil Contingencies Unit (The EPT): This unit is part of the local council and is directly responsible for developing and maintaining the formal emergency plans, training, and exercises for all of Somerset.

Getting More Information & Local Support

• For Advice: Visit the Somerset Prepared website for tips on staying safe, templates for emergency plans, and information on local community initiatives.
• Local Action: Your Parish Council can also provide information on specific local emergency planning efforts in your area. https://mudford-pc.gov.uk/
• Local Flood Group: For residents in the Mudford/Sock, Ashington, and Chilton Cantelo areas, you can check the 3 Villages Flood Group website (https://www.3vfg.org.uk) for local updates.

Always Remember: Go In, Stay In, Tune In

If an incident occurs, the advice is to Go In, Stay In, Tune In—get inside, stay safe, and listen to local radio or TV for instructions from the emergency services.