Preparedness
What is an emergency and how can you prepare for them
Emergencies can happen without warning and may affect homes, businesses and communities across the district. While it is not possible to prevent every emergency, taking a few simple steps in advance can help reduce disruption and make it easier to protect yourself, your family and those around you.
Whether it is flooding, severe weather, power cuts, transport disruption, public health incidents or other unexpected events, being prepared can help you respond more effectively and recover more quickly.
The information on these pages provides practical advice to help residents, businesses and community organisations prepare for a range of emergencies and build resilience before an incident occurs.
During an emergency, always follow advice from the emergency services, your local authority and other official sources. If there is an immediate risk to life, call 999. For urgent medical advice when it is not an emergency, use NHS 111 online or call 111.
The GOV.UK Prepare campaign supports national resilience by helping individuals, households and communities take simple, practical steps before an emergency happens. Its official guidance explains how to prepare for emergencies, understand the hazards that may affect your area and support people who may need extra help. Taking action now—such as making a household emergency plan, keeping essential supplies and knowing where to find trusted information, can make it easier to cope during disruption and recover afterwards.
Getting involved in your community is an important way to help build local resilience and ensure people are better prepared for emergencies. The UK Government’s Prepare Campaign encourages residents to support their communities before, during and after emergencies by volunteering, joining local groups, checking on vulnerable neighbours, and helping to strengthen local support networks. Practical examples include becoming a volunteer with organisations such as the British Red Cross, St John Ambulance or local flood action groups, helping at community centres, supporting food banks, participating in litter-picking and environmental projects, assisting with community emergency plans, or checking on elderly and vulnerable neighbours during severe weather or power outages.
During an emergency, residents should follow advice from local authorities and emergency services, respond to official requests for support, and avoid putting themselves or others at risk by travelling to affected areas. By working together, communities can share trusted information, provide practical assistance, and help those most in need when emergencies occur.