Reservoir failure
Reservoirs are built and maintained to very high standards. They are inspected regularly and must meet strict standards set by the Environment Agency. The risk of a reservoir failing in Cumbria has not increased.
The likelihood of reservoir failure is low. There has been no loss of life due to dam failure in this country since the 1920s. Even so, we need to be prepared to ensure we can response in case of an emergency.
Reservoir flooding
Reservoir failure could lead to the sudden release of deep, fast-moving water.
It could be very different from most other forms of flooding and there could be little warning of reservoir failure.
In some cases seeking refuge upstairs would be unsafe and evacuation may be necessary.
While trained officials work hard to prepare for emergencies, its important that you are prepared too.
It’s important that you are aware of what to do in an emergency to keep you and your family safe.
Evacuation
If you need to evacuate the area you may be informed in one of the following ways:
- By officials knocking on your door
- By vehicle-mounted loudspeakers
- By local radio of television stations
What to do in an emergency
- Be prepared to act quickly to get yourself to safety
- Cooperate with emergency services if they tell you to evacuate and go to the designated assembly point/ reception centre. If you choose to go to a friend or relative please inform the police.
- Get together family and pets. Put small animals in pet carriers or a secure box.
- Ensure neighbours are aware of the emergency and check if they need help.
- Pack spare clothing, essential medicine and any special dietary foods required. Don’t forget baby care items if you have an infant.
- Take personal documents and valuables
- If you receive an evacuation card, complete it and follow the instructions given.
- Turn off gas, electricity and water supplies and lock your property when you leave.
- Keep listening to local radio for updates.
- Move away from the reservoir, keeping to higher ground.
Important!
- Avoid walking or driving through flood water. 6 inches (15 centimetres) of moving water can knock you off your feed or disable a car.
- Keep children and vulnerable people away from flood water
- Remain calm and act quickly. Call 999 if you are in danger.
Reception Centres
The emergency services may tell you to go to a designated reception centre.
People running reception centres are trained to give you support and advice. They will help you through the stress of an emergency and prepare you for what to do afterwards.
Road closure
In the event of a dam emergency it is likely that a number of roads may need to be closed. Railway lines might also be affected.
If possible, tune in to local radio or TV for information and updates.
