A SPECIAL information pack offering advice on how to prepare against potential flooding has been sent to parishes across West Devon.

The ?toolkits? were compiled by the borough council?s environmental services department with the support of the Environment Agency, and contain advice ranging from drawing up a family flood action plan to restoring your home after a flood.

It is hoped that each parish council will adopt measures recommended in the pack, including setting up a store of sandbags for use in emergencies.

Tracy McMahon, the borough?s civil engineer, said: ?We tend to get involved only when flooding has occurred, to give advice on cleaning up the damage.

?This is why we are contacting parish councils and providing information, as they are often the first point of contact for our residents.

?It makes real sense that small stores of sandbags be set up in each parish to provide for emergency protection to properties.?

The ?toolkits? also contain leaflets outlining the rights and responsibilities of a riverside owner and flooding in gardens.

Residents can get hold of a pack by contacting Tracy McMahon on 01822 813545 or e-mail: [email protected]">[email protected]