We need more Flood Wardens in Cirencester!

*Chris Pogson, Cllr Nick Bridges, John Tiffney, and Rachel Seymour, by the Churn at Jack Gardner Memorial Gardens*

Following the heaviest rainfall in September for 30 years (who doesn’t believe in Global Warming?) the River Churn is flowing at a greater rate through Cirencester. Floodplains are filling up from Stratton Meadows to Tesco Extra. The groundwater table has also risen so the risk of more properties being flooded this winter has increased.

The Environment Agency, local councils and the emergency response services are monitoring the situation and ensuring that plans are in place to reduce risk and assist people whose homes and businesses are vulnerable. However, there are a lot of vulnerable towns and villages so these resources could be stretched. Local community action is therefore paramount. In an emergency, as a Flood Warden, you could be a knowledgeable first point of contact for the first responders.

Local knowledge of vulnerable people and properties is vital and this is where Flood Wardens are invaluable. There are currently four volunteers in Cirencester and more are needed. GRCC (Gloucestershire Rural Community Council) run the Flood Warden project in partnership with Cotswold District Council and is supported by the Cirencester Town Council.

The role is entirely voluntary, and a two-hour training course is needed to give you background information and advice. The role is not physically demanding, and it is stressed that you should not put yourself at risk: it is more a case of using your eyes and ears; reporting hazards and offering advice before, during and after a flood. People who have to walk a dog every day, say, and notice changes day-to-day might like to volunteer.

As a Flood Warden, you will be given reassuringly thorough induction training and a 30-page handbook with links to all the phone numbers, websites, and information you might need so that you can be confident in an emergency, and best assist the agencies dealing with problems. Log sheets are also provided so that you can record information for follow-up and learning.

It must be stressed that homeowners whose properties are most at risk of flooding should ensure they have taken steps to protect their property. You can assist by directing them to websites offering guidance on protecting their buildings. For example, many don’t know that Councils do not supply sandbags – and there are several alternatives like gel and inflatable bags which are better in any case. You might also help the vulnerable make up a flood preparedness kit (torch, list of contacts, change of clothes etc.) These and many other useful topics will be covered in your comprehensive training.

If you are community-minded and this is of interest, please contact Nick Bridges (07462319245) or John Tiffney (01285 671888) as soon as possible – time is of the essence.

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