Goole MP Ian Cawsey recently met experts from the Environment Agency (EA) at the House of Commons to outline plans on how to manage the risk now and in the future, as well as giving practical tips on how to help their constituents protect their homes.

He said: "Flooding is a real threat to people living in my constituency and it is vital that they listen to the Environment Agency's advice on protecting themselves and their home.

"Signing up to Floodline is a great service that will give you the best possible warning of a flood.

"Making a flood plan and getting a flood kit together takes a few moments, but can make an enormous difference if there is a flood."

As well as information on the free Floodline Warnings Direct service, the EA recommends residents have a flood plan, including checking your insurance cover; knowing how to turn off your gas, electricity and water mains supplies; preparing a flood kit of essential items (including a torch, a wind-up/battery radio, first aid kit); knowing who to contact and how; and thinking about what you can move now.

Regional director Harvey Bradshaw said: "The support of Ian Cawsey is vital in managing flood risk now and in tackling the increased challenges in the future, especially with the impacts of climate change."

She added: "We need to balance the need for new homes against the risk of building in the floodplain."

The EA's key concerns are:

l parts of existing defences below Defra's suggested levels of protection

l important defences deteriorating

l protection levels may fall with predicted climate change and sea level rise

l pressures to develop in flood risk areas

The EA is also recommending that all forms of flooding are dealt with by a single national agency.

For more information, call the EA's Floodline on 0845 9881188.