A BRITISH charity has offered advice on what to do during and after a flood as Storm Bert continues to flood parts of Dorset.

The British Red Cross has offered its support and words of wisdom to residents affected by the recent stormy weather.

Heavy rain across the UK has led to widespread flooding, with 143 flood warnings issued by the Environment Agency.

The advice is as follows: “During a flood, don't walk, swim or drive through floodwater. Six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over. Two feet of water can float a car.    

“Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage.   

“If the flood poses a threat to your safety, call the emergency services immediately.    

“If you need to leave your home and have nowhere to stay your local council will help.”

“After a flood, get rid of any contaminated food. 

“Boil tap water or use bottled water until supplies are declared safe.    

“Follow the UK government's advice on how to keep you and your family safe while cleaning up after a flood.”

Laurs Scott, Head of Crisis Response and Resilience at the British Red Cross, said:  “UK winters are getting wetter and the risk of flooding is rising. It’s vital that our communities have the information they need to be able to prepare for, respond to, and recover from the impact of flooding.”