Volunteers sought to become flood wardens

11:53am Monday 14th April 2008

VOLUNTEERS from the community are being sought to help fight flooding in West Dorset.

The district is looking for flood wardens to provide a vital role in protecting people and their homes from the impact of flooding.

The Environment Agency is backing a scheme run through parish councils across the area, which already has around 20 wardens in place.

Katie Jay, from the agency's flood incident management team, says the role of the flood warden is one that would benefit all communities.

She said: "We ask them to set up a community flood plan so we can look at vulnerable people and properties and if there was a flood event we would know who to go to and evacuate the people most in need.

"The plan will also show where sandbags can be found as well as who to contact and what the responsibilities are for each of the authorities.

"We also ask them to monitor river levels and after an event we will ask them to take photos to show where the water levels came up to."

Leader of West Dorset District Council Robert Gould is also urging people to come forward and join the scheme.

He said: "The flood warden scheme operated by the Environment Agency is a very valuable and worthwhile service. Flood wardens are an essential way to protect communities and homes.

"The additional information they can provide and the warnings they give can mean extra minutes to help save people and property."

For more information on becoming a flood warden contact Miss Jay on 01258 483436 or email katie.jay@environment-agency.gov.uk