We face a number of risks in Waltham Forest. Below, we highlight a few examples and suggest measures you can take in advance.
What if… the River Lea burst its banks?
Do you know if your home is at risk from flooding? Flooding from the River Lee and the Ching Brook is a significant risk in the Borough while the potential consequences of a reservoir wall failure are severe.
» See our flooding advice page for more information.
What if… there was a power cut or loss of water supply for over 24 hours?
We all rely on the utilities to meet our basic needs. As a result, losing gas, power or water supply for a long period of time will cause massive inconvenience and could be life-threatening.
» Follow our P.L.A.N. advice to reduce the disruption caused by any utility failure.
» Register with the utility companies if you believe you require priority services during a utility failure.
What if… severe weather affected the region?
The UK can be affected by extreme weather conditions including severe gales, torrential rain, heavy snow and icy roads, thunderstorms and lightning, heatwaves and dense fog. All of these hazards can affect the Borough.
What if... a cloud of poisonous gas passed over the Borough?
In a city the size of London, there is always the risk of an accidental release of hazardous chemicals into the atmosphere. In our borough, there is a specific risk to residents living near the Coppermills Water Treatment Works.
» Read the advice to residents (372KB PDF file) distributed by Thames Water.
What if... radioactive materials contaminated the local environment?
There are no significant stores of radioactive materials in the borough. However harmful quantities could still contaminate the local environment either by accident or by malicious intent. If this happens, follow the government's advice to 'Go in, Stay in, and Tune In'
What if... an infectious disease pandemic broke out?
The recent outbreak of swine 'flu did not have the catastrophic impact many had feared but an infectious disease pandemic remains one of the highest risks to the United Kingdom.
» See our pandemic advice page for more information.
More information
» Learn how to prepare your family for an emergency with our P.L.A.N. advice
» Read the Community Risk Register for full details of the risks facing North East London
» See the National Risk Register for details of the risks facing the United Kingdom
The illustration above gives a visual representation of the most significant risks facing the United Kingdom.
