The Environment Agency has warned that small businesses are not taking the necessary precautions to protect themselves against flooding, despite the cost of last summer’s debacle being put at around £1.3bn.
According to the Environment Agency, small businesses are more at risk from flooding than fire, and the repercussions can be 30 times as expensive as burglary. Yet many businesses do not have any measures in place to protect their property or staff from flooding.
During the deluge of last summer nearly 7,000 businesses flooded, with the total cost of damage to business estimated at around £1.3bn.
The Environment Agency recommends that businesses take action now to ensure that they protect themselves as far as possible and are prepared to deal with the consequences if the worst happens. For a start, companies should check if they are at risk of river or coastal flooding.
Secondly, the Environment Agency recommends that all businesses have a detailed plan which includes a list of important contacts, a map showing key equipment, protective materials and service shut off points and basic strategies to protect the property, ensure staff safety and minimise business disruption if a flood occurs.
Environment Agency chief executive Barbara Young said while she recognises small businesses have limited resources, making preparations now can pay huge dividends if a flood does occur.
“By checking their flood risk and following our simple preparation guide, businesses can cut the cost of damage by as much as 90% and make sure they are protecting their staff and premises,” said Young.
© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008