Wyre prepared for Stormy Weathers

High volume pumps used in flooding emergencies

Before the winter begins, bringing with it the possibility of severe weather and flooding, Wyre Council demonstrated in October two new high volume pumps that have been bought for such events.

Taking place at the boating lake in Fleetwood, the demonstration showed attendees the new equipment that is available should it be needed, and showed what the pumps are capable of.

The high volume pumps have been purchased by Wyre Council with Government funding received after the floods of November 2015 and will be stored by the council and deployed within communities when and where they are needed. They will will be set up during severe weather to take water from a flooded area and move it to a safe place.

Representatives from Environment Agency, United Utilities, Lancashire County Council Highways, Lancashire Fire and Rescue, members of Wyre’s flood forum group, as well as Thornton, Preesall, Churchtown and St Michael’s flood action groups came along. Community groups such as these work with Wyre Council and other authorities to build resilient communities that are able to protect and support individual properties and vulnerable customers and assets when flooding occurs.

Councillor Roger Berry, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services and Community Safety commented ‘It’s really important that we all play our part in being prepared for bad weather and flooding. This new equipment will assist us in taking action against flooding within affected communities should we need to. I would urge all residents to also take some time now to make sure they are as best protected from flooding as they can be. If you spot any issues such as highway flooding or blocked gullies, report them to Lancashire County Council so that that they can be investigated further. Also, consider buying your own flood protection devices such as sandbags or their modern alternative and airbrick covers. It could prove to a very worthwhile investment.’

To find out more about preparing for flooding visit www.wyre.gov.uk/flooding