Don't get flooded

Having seen a 15% increase in flood and storm claims, and with the rains set to continue across the country, Lloyds TSB Insurance is urging customers in high risk areas to act now to prepare for the possibility of flooding.

The insurer says it's gearing up for an influx of calls from worried customers - many of whom have only just recovered from the devastating impact of last summer's floods.

This current bout of severe weather could pose even more acute problems than the 2007 summer floods, with colder temperatures and shorter days making rescue and clean up operations all the more difficult. This means that it is especially important for customers to do all they can to mitigate potential damage to their homes.

In order to help homeowners at risk or directly affected by the floods, the insurer is advising people to visit its dedicated flooding website, http://www.helpimflooded.co.uk/.

The site, created in association with the National Flood Forum, offers advice and information designed to help homeowners prepare for an imminent flood, deal with the impact and aftermath and importantly, secure their property and personal safety.