A comprehensive guide to help homeowners and small businesses to improve the flood resistance of their homes and premises was launched today by Planning Minister Sally Keeble. The guidance "Preparing for Floods" contains advice on simple, low-cost measures to limit damage to personal property as well as suggestions on building alterations and designs that help keep water out or reduce damage if flood water enters. The guide is aimed at homeowners, small businesses, planners and developers.

Planning Minister Sally Keeble said "Since the impact of flooding is so devastating, it is important that people in flood risk areas take action to protect their properties. Much can be done to reduce the damage caused by floods as this guidance shows. We hope it will be of practical help to all those whose homes or businesses may be at risk. The key messages to small businesses and homeowners in flood risk areas is that simple measures can save you a considerable amount of disruption and money. If you live in an area at higher risk then protection measures can save you even more."

In all cases, action plans should be based on an assessment of the likelihood, probable depth and duration of floods in the locality. The simpler measures include:

• Knowing where the gas and electricity supplies can be turned off.
• Making sure important equipment and valuables can be stored in dry areas.
• Considering temporary flood barriers for doors, windows and air-bricks.
• Considering fitting valves to prevent sewage flowing backward during floods.

More comprehensive measures include:

• Using materials for floors and walls that are more flood-resistant.
• Raising gas appliances, electric meters and sockets above the flood level.
• Raising the planned floor level above the maximum flood level.
• Planning more secure and comprehensive drainage systems.
• Installing flood defenses within the landscaping of housing developments.
• Designing buildings with living areas upstairs and a ground floor used for garage and storage.

The "Preparing for Floods" guidance document also includes the experiences of householders and small businesses, which show how prior preparation has reduced damage caused by floods and brought about a quicker recovery in the aftermath of flooding. The guidance will also be made available in Welsh. It forms a part of the Environment Agency's flood awareness campaign with copies available free of charge from the Agency's 24 hour Floodline 0845 988 1188.

The guide was jointly funded by the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions, the Environment Agency, the Department for Trade and Industry, the National Assembly for Wales, the Scottish Executive, the Association of British Insurers, the House Builders Federation, and the National House Builders Council. The other organisations involved in the production of the guide were the Building Research Establishment, the Construction Industry Research and Information Association, HR Wallingford and WS Atkins.