Nationwide Vehicle Contracts provides advice on how to keep your lease car safe during flood warnings.
Flood warnings can be a stressful experience, especially if your lease car is in danger.
While it's impossible to completely flood-proof your car, there are a few practical steps you can take to minimize potential damage.
In this blog, we'll discuss essential tips for safeguarding your lease car during flood warnings, from moving it to higher ground to sealing openings.
Stay Informed
First things first, ensure you stay informed about flood warnings in your area. Make sure you regularly monitor weather reports, check local news, and use weather apps to receive timely updates.
This will mean you're aware of the situation and will give you more time to prepare.
Choose a Safe Parking Spot
If you live in an area that's prone to flooding, ensure you've always got a safe parking space in mind if a flood is likely. This could be on higher ground, in a garage, or even at a friend's house that's outside the flood zone.
If a flood is likely, move your car to your safe parking spot.
Elevate Your Car
If moving your car isn't possible, try and elevate it as much as you can. Parking on a curb, driveway, or even using car ramps can help keep your car above water levels.
Just ensure your car is in a safe place and doesn't block any emergency paths.
Disconnect the Battery
To prevent electrical damage, which can be seriously expensive, disconnect your car's battery. This reduces the risk of short circuits and electrical fires.
Ensure you follow your car's manual for proper disconnection procedures, and remember to wear gloves and safety glasses.
Seal Openings
Water can enter your car through openings like doors, windows, and air vents. To prevent this, use weather strippings, waterproof tape, or plastic sheets to seal the openings.
Pay special attention to the air intake and exhaust pipe to prevent water from entering the engine.
Fuel Up
Before a flood warning, make sure your car has a full tank of fuel. This will give you the flexibility to drive to a safer location or, if necessary, run your engine for power.
Follow Local Authorities Advice
Finally, always follow the guidance of local authorities and emergency services. They are the experts in their field and may have specific instructions for evacuation plans for your area.
Make sure you adhere to what they say and always ensure the safety of you and your family first.
Looking for more car safety information? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts produce a range of content to help keep you up to date, such as our Caring For Your Lease Vehicle guides.
We are also one of the UK's largest car leasing brokers, offering a range of car leasing deals to suit your every need.