As Autumn begins next week and autumnal weather has already arrived, the Environment Agency and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service are getting together to offer free flood advice.

The Environment Agency's Flood Incident Management Team and West Sussex Fire and Rescue's new mobile information unit will be on hand from 10:00am - 6:00pm on Friday 14th October at Selsey fire station, which is located in the high street. Officers will be available to discuss flood risk and illustrate practical measures that can be taken to protect properties and minimise the impact of flooding.

A representative from Chichester District Council will be available throughout the morning to explain their role and responsibilities.

People will be able to get advice on simple and cost effective methods of flood protection that are easily employed. There will be information on how to make your home flood resistant using the new BSI Kitemark standard established for flood protection products including flood boards and free-standing barriers. The day is also an opportunity for local people to learn more about the Environment Agency's flood warning service.

Jonathan Hunter , who has organised the day for the Environment Agency said:

"We work very closely with the Fire and Rescue Service during times of flood. We are working together now to make sure as many people as possible are protected from and warned about flooding before the bad weather kicks in.

"Although it's not possible to stop all floods from happening we can make sure that individuals have plenty of warning and can take steps to protect their homes and their families."

Martin Funnell , an Emergency Planning Officer with West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said the aim is to raise awareness of flooding risks in the same way it warns of fire safety or road safety.

"We want communities to know how to help themselves and what they can expect from the emergency services if flooding occurs. The more prepared we are, the better we will cope with it at the time. If you live in an area likely to flood you should register on the Environment Agency's flood warning system. Just taking simple steps like moving valuable documents, or packing essential medicines and baby food can make a big difference if a flood does hit."

The Environment Agency and Sussex Fire and Rescue are keen to encourage anyone who would like to learn more about flood risk areas, flood protection and the free flood warning service to attend.

Those unable to come along, who would like to learn more can visit the website www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodline or call Floodline on .