Precautionary measures

There is a broad expectation with the public that, in a period of likely flooding, Worthing Borough Council will make sandbags available.  This is not the case.  Members of the public have a responsibility to protect their own properties.  If they consider they are at risk of flooding, then sandbags should be purchased from local building suppliers.

Imminent flooding

If a property is in imminent risk of being invaded by floodwater, Worthing Borough Council will consider sending sandbags at no charge, following the undertaking of a risk assessment.  Sandbags will not be provided for protecting gardens, outbuildings or other structures.

Where the Fire Service are in attendance and themselves make a request for sandbags, the Council will, if possible, respond, provided that the Fire Service have carried out a risk assessment and can confirm that the provision of sand bags will be effective.

Commercial Properties

The protection of commercial properties is the responsibility of the owners or occupiers, who should undertake their own risk assessment and make provision for the supply and positioning of sandbags.

Worthing Borough Council will respond to requests from the Emergency Services to protect strategic properties until the arrival and support of the owners or occupiers.

Delivery/Disposal of sandbags

After risk assessment and where possible, the Council will deliver sandbags to occupied properties at imminent risk.  However, there may be occasions when this is not possible, in which case the occupier will be invited to make his/her own arrangements for collection, or seek a commercial alternative.

Where sandbags are provided, they become the responsibility of the person receiving them.  Worthing Borough Council will not accept liability for their placement or any subsequent action, neither will the Council be responsible for collecting or disposing of issued sandbags.

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