The Environment Agency’s old coastal flood sirens will stop being used from 31 December 2020.

The 18 flood sirens were originally installed after the Environment Agency’s free Flood Warning Service was first launched in 2006 because this didn’t have the capacity to reach all properties at coastal flood risk.

This service has been much improved since then and is now available for all properties at risk of tidal and/or river flooding here. The flood warnings can be issued in a more targeted way, and can give information much sooner, to help communities be prepared.

The EA can already reach 83% of properties at risk of coastal flooding with a flood warning message through this service. The sirens only have an audible range that could reach 72% of properties at risk, depending on factors like wind direction and double-glazing too.   

Make sure your home or business is fully signed up to this free service. Call 0345 988 1188 or do it online here

Click here for more information about making a flood plan for your home, business or a community group. More information about the decommissioned flood sirens can be found here.

If you have any questions, please contact the Environment Agency’s Flood Resilience Team by email frt.lincsandnorthants@environment-agency.gov.uk or call 03708 506 506.

What else can you do to be prepared?

• Prepare an Emergency Bag of essential items. This might include any medication, a waterproof coat, spare glasses, water, food, insurance documents and pet food.
• Consider Flood Products e.g. air brick covers, flood gates. Some ideas are available here www.bluepages.org.uk Alternatives include putting soil in bags to go across doorways and down the toilet/sink.
• Residents can also keep an eye on local radio/TV news bulletins or visit the Met Office website www.metoffice.gov.uk