Why King Canute never had to deal with insurers
Viking legend, King Canute, famous for trying to hold back the tide, has much in common with the victims of last years' flooding it seems. Almost half, 45 per cent, said that they felt that there was nothing which they could do personally to prevent future flooding, and that the government and local authorities had to intervene.
A study by Norwich Union reveals that 83 per cent of people living in Gloucester, Tewksbury, Hull, Sheffield and Rotherham believe there is nothing they can do to protect their home from flooding, and so only five per cent of people have installed new garden drainage, built walls or diverted guttering to prevent standing water building up again.
Mary Dhonau, chief executive of the National Flood Forum, says: "Having been flooded myself, I know what an awful experience it can be.
"The findings of this report have shocked me because there is so much more people can do than using the humble, not to mention, ineffective sandbag. As someone who has witnessed the huge benefits of flood resilient repairs, I'm a huge advocate of taking measures to protect your home. Adapting or altering your home can significantly lessen both the practical and emotional impact of flood. Not only can damage to your personal possessions and furnishings be reduced you could be back in your home quicker after a flood if you have to move out at all."
April 09th 2008