Internal Drainage Board - Emergency Actions

Emergency Actions

During times of heavy rainfall and high river levels IDBs:

• liaise with the Environment Agency over developing flood conditions
• check sensitive locations and remove restrictions
• take actions, where possible, to reduce risk of flooding to property
• advise local authorities on the developing situation in order that Local Authorities can execute their emergency
• plan effectively for the protection of people, property and critical infrastructure
• assist where possible in any post-flood remedial and clearance operations
• assess flooding incidents to determine if new works can be undertaken to reduce the effect of future flooding incidents

An IDB's priorities during flooding are:

• ensuring the board’s systems are working efficiently
• protection of people and residential properties
• protection of commercial properties
• protection of agricultural land and ecologically sensitive sites

Some IDBs are able to provide a 24 hour contact number and most extend office hours during severe emergencies.