The Environment Agency aims, where possible, to give you a 2 hour warning where it can forecast flooding. The better prepared you are, the better you'll cope with the effects of flooding.

Flooding happens quickly and often when you least expect it. It's easy to lose each other at times like this. A family flood plan will help you through a serious situation. If you have children, you can develop a drawing of a flood area that you all colour in together, explaining what to do and where to go. Work through the list below to make sure that your children understand the importance of these messages. You could even prepare a 'quiz'.

Do make a plan that you all understand. Don't do something different once you've made your plan.

• Do know how to contact each other. Your family could be anywhere when a flood happens.

• Do find out where your family would be evacuated to. Make sure you all know where that is. Floods may force you to leave your home.

• Do put the emergency numbers in a safe place. Prepare a flood kit which can be kept in a safe place.

• Do know where to turn off your power supplies. Do you have a torch handy in case it's dark?

• Do make sure you understand what the flood warning service for your area is.

• Do tell a friend or neighbour about your plan. You may need their help if there's a flood, or they may need yours.

• Do read through the fact sheet 'Are you prepared for a flood?' in this pack.

• Do think if there is someone who will need your help.

• Don't wait for a flood to find out whether your plan works. Try it now.