SEPA launches new interactive flood reporting tool

‘Report–a-Flood’ (which can be viewed at: www.floodlinescotland.org.uk/report-a-flood) enables members of the public to share information on current flooding issues in order to help reduce the disruption flooding can have on people’s lives and make communities more resilient

The public can report incidents of flooding, whether from sea, rivers or in towns using the tool and SEPA will publish these reports online to increase awareness of local flood impacts and help keep communities moving.

David Pirie, SEPA executive director, said: “Report-a-Flood aims to empower communities to be flood-prepared by providing a forum for members of the public to share information on local flood impacts as they happen.

“It’s important to remember that you are the first line of defence against flooding and you can take action now to reduce the impact which flooding can have on your life. It is your responsibility to manage your own flood risk and protect yourself, your family, property and business.

“The interactive tool will provide an invaluable source of information on flood risk across Scotland, and help people to be better informed about flooding in their area. The usefulness of this information will of course be dependent on the quality of the reports we receive, and we hope that as many people as possible will get involved and report flooding when they become aware of it.

“It’s important that people use Report-a-Flood for information sharing, but know it’s not a way to get assistance from emergency services or other responders, and is not monitored for response action. If you are concerned about your safety or the safety of others please contact the emergency services.”

Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform Dr McLeod said: “The impacts of flooding experienced by individuals, communities and businesses can be devastating and long lasting. This is why it is vital that we continue to reduce the risk of any such future events and improve Scotland’s ability to manage and recover from any events which do occur. Report-a-flood will be an important tool to help expand the knowledge of flood risk across the whole of Scotland.”

This new tool adds to SEPA’s wider flood risk awareness raising. Our Floodline service already provides live flooding information and advice on how to prepare for or cope with the impacts of flooding 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Floodline can be accessed by everyone on 0345 988 1188 and at www.floodlinescotland.org.uk and if you register with us you can receive free flood messages for your area of interest direct to your phone.