THE Environment Agency is warning businesses about the dangers of flooding.

The Environment Agency is launching a comprehensive Online Flood Preparation Guide For Businesses to help small to medium-sized businesses to prepare for the serious threat of flooding.

The flood preparation guide is the Environment Agency's first national advice targeted specifically at businesses, in response to the increasing frequency and severity of flooding.

There are 175,000 businesses at risk of flooding in England and Wales. It is a risk with potentially devastating financial consequences for owners, employees and local communities.

More than 42 per cent of businesses affected by floods incur costs of more than £50,000.

Businesses have very specific requirements in flood planning, including ensuring safety of staff and visitors, managing disrupted services and trading and maintaining high standards of customer service.

Environment Agency chief executive Barbara Young said: "Preparing for a flood makes good business sense.

"Even a relatively minor flood can result in business disruption, staff problems, property damage and sometimes hefty recovery costs.

"By taking action to prepare for flooding, some businesses can save 20-90 per cent on the cost of lost stock and moveable equipment, as well as a lot of trouble and stress."

The guide is available at www.environment-agency.gov.uk