DETAILED advice on how to cope in any emergency is set out in a new booklet that is being distributed across Fenland.

It is being targeted particularly at people living in places that are most at risk from problems such as flooding, together with those in outlying or isolated areas, with 30,000 copies now being circulated.

“Preparing for Emergencies” has been produced by Fenland District Council to help give the public essential information about dealing with various types of emergencies. It stresses the need for advance planning.

Key tips include:

• Fit fire alarms and check them regularly

• Get everyone in your household involved in practising how to leave the house quickly in the event of fire

• Teach children how to dial 999 to report an emergency

• Keep a list of important contact numbers (the booklet includes a general list of emergency numbers, with space to add your own individual ones)

It advises preparing an emergency pack in case you have to leave your home at short notice. Packs should include a range of items such as warm clothes, a torch and batteries, essential medication and basic toiletries.

The booklet, which has been funded by advertising, is believed to be the first of its kind produced in Cambridgeshire. The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Local Resilience Forum is now looking at the possibility of rolling out similar booklets across the rest of the county in the future.

Councillor John Clark, FDC’s portfolio holder responsible for quality organisation, said: “We’re very proud to have taken a lead in working with all the emergency services to produce this booklet. It brings together all the key information.

“Anyone can be hit at any time by some sort of emergency whether it be flooding, thick snow, a fire or prolonged power cut, and you have to be prepared, particularly if you live on your own or in an isolated area. I’d urge everyone to make sure they read the advice and act on it.”

• “Preparing for Emergencies” is also available in Fenland @ your service shops and online at www.fenland.gov.uk/article/3981/