Thousands yet to sign up for flood help
15 December 2010, 05:30
New figures published today - show around 24,000 people who live in flood proned areas of the Thames Valley - aren't getting early warnings.
It comes as the Environment Agency simplify their 3-stage warning system.
The flood codes are changing from today - as a direct result of an official review into how the Environment Agency handled the 2007 floods which affected 55,000 homes and businesses across the UK.
The new public warning messages and codes will be used for all flood risks - with a greater emphasis on what needs to be done.
During a high flood risk or emergency - the situation would be handled by the Environment Agency's Flood Control Room in Wallingford.
Around 36,218 people live on the floodplain - mainly along the Thames and it's tributaries in Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
The new system can now be sent out by phone, text, email, fax and on-line.
Floodline will continue to operate with recorded information on the latest warnings 24/7 on the following number: 0845 988 1188
Flood wardens and flood ambassadors have been recruited to monitor the situation on the ground and help where necessary during flood emergencies.
To see how the flood codes have changed and how it could affect you - visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood