Around 5 million people, in 2 million homes and countless businesses are in flood risk areas in the UK. Floods are dangerous. They cause great damage and can kill. They ruin your possessions, but also contaminate food.

A mere one inch of water will ruin your carpet. Six inches of fast flowing water can knock you off your feet, and two feet of flood water will float your car.

HOW TO COPE AFTER A FLOOD - SOME DOS & DON'TS

DO Call your insurance company. Tell them what has happened.

DO contact the gas, electricity and water companies. You'll need to have your supplies checked before you turn them back on. Find their numbers on the back of a recent bill or in the phone book.

DO open the door and windows to ventilate your home. It takes a brick about 25mm/an inch a month to dry out. Remember to unblock your airbricks and doorways, but take care to ensure your house is secure against intruders.

DO watch out for any broken glass or nails while you are cleaning up.

DO wash taps and run the water for a few minutes before use. Mains tap water should not be contaminated but check with your local water company if you're concerned.

DON'T Turn on any electrical equipment until you are sure it has dried out.

DON'T trust bogus traders. With so much damage it is tempting to take the first offer that comes along. Always check references and if possible, get recommendations.

One call does it all. Call DPG+ on 0141 643 0999.

We’ll be there soon.