Survey reveals pets worth more than possessions in a flood

Simple steps can reduce the impact of a flood 

19.11.11

People would rescue pets ahead of expensive gadgets or sentimental photos from their home before it flooded, an Environment Agency survey has revealed.

The survey asked people to name what one possession they would save.

• Pets ranked highly at 23 per cent
• laptops were at 10 per cent
• jewellery at three per cent
• and wallets just one per cent.

And, perhaps unsurprisingly, some items split the sexes: almost double the number of women said photos would be their one 'must save' item. But most men questioned said they'd save gadgets over photos and jewellery.

Putting animals above material possessions is only natural

People in the north-east of England top the poll when it comes to pet rescues, with more than a third (36 per cent) of people questioned putting their animal above material possessions.

RSPCA Inspectorate Communications and Liaison Officer, Tony Woodley, said:

Pets are a much-loved part of families so it is natural that they would feature high up a flood rescue list.

For animal owners who live in areas at risk from high water, we urge people to keep informed of Environment Agency warnings and take steps to ensure their pets and livestock are kept safe, for example moving them to higher ground when necessary.

Are you prepared for a flood? 

On the two-year anniversary of the devastating floods in Cumbria, and one year on from flooding in Cornwall, the Environment Agency is urging people to be aware of the risks a flood might pose.

Despite the fact that more than half (54 per cent) of those questioned said they felt that there was little or nothing they could do to protect their home from a flood, simple steps to prepare can help reduce the risk of damage.

Taking action now can protect your animals and reduce risk of damage

Only 37 per cent felt that they could do a great deal or fair amount to prevent the risk of flooding to their home.
 
But by taking action now you can help to keep your animals safe and reduce the risk of damage to your home in the event of a flood. Simple steps include:

• preparing a flood plan
   
• raising electrical sockets
   
• checking insurance policies to see what cover exists for flood damage.

One in six properties in England is at risk from flooding. Together with the Environment Agency, we are urging all homeowners and businesses to:

• check your flood risk
   
• and sign up for free river or coastal flood warnings at:
  
  www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood
   

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Your animals need your help!

If you live in a flood-risk area, our flood advice can help you to prepare a flood plan to protect you and your animals in the event of flooding. 

 

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You can read more about the Environment Agency survey at: www.environment-agency.gov.uk