Our role in an emergency
If a major incident is declared we will:
- support the emergency services
- support people affected by the incident
- provide mutual aid for other councils
- carry on with normal services
- plan for long term consequences
We have an emergency planning controller on duty at all times who can mobilise resources and contractors at short notice.
We will attend the scene of the incident to liaise with the emergency services and, if necessary, can set up an emergency control centre in the borough.
When needed we will provide:
- transport
- temporary evacuation shelter
- examination of building structures
- highway closures and diversion routes
- equipment
We also play a major role in getting things back to normal as quickly as possible.
Duties under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004
We have a statutory duty to:
- risk assess to inform contingency planning
- embed emergency plans
- embed Business Continuity Management arrangements
- work with local responders to enhance coordination and efficiency
- publicise Civil Protection matters and develop arrangements to advise, warn and inform the public
Borough and London partners
Partner agencies include the London Metropolitan Police, Lewisham Police, London Fire Brigade, Lewisham Hospital, NHS partners, London Ambulance Service and the Environment Agency.
Lewisham risk register
There are certain risks Lewisham faces, we assess these risks and see what the expected impact and likelihood of each risk is, and what mitigation measures can be put in place.
A risk register identifies and assesses potential risks to an area. It helps to prioritise potential emergencies and informs emergency planning efforts.
As a council we aim to protect the health, safety, and security of all individuals who live, work, and visit the borough. We also have a statutory duty to assess risks that may impact the local community. To do this we produce a risk register. This risk register sits under the London Risk Register, which looks at risks at a regional level, and the National Risk Register, which looks at risks that could affect all or part of the country.
The Lewisham Borough Resilience Forum (BRF) meets with Category 1 and 2 Partners quarterly. The members of the forum review the risks annually that could happen in Lewisham and update the risk register where required.
The top risks to Lewisham currently are:
Cold weather
Cold weather, snow, and ice can disrupt travel and increase the risk of illness or accidents, especially for vulnerable people. Staying warm, taking care when walking or driving, and following safety advice helps reduce these risks. Find out about keeping warm and staying well.
Hot weather
High temperatures and heatwaves can negatively impact health and cause disruption to transport networks and utilities. Staying hydrated, keeping cool, and following official advice helps reduce risk during extreme heat. Find out how you can beat the heat.
Storms
Storms can cause major disruption, including power and telecommunication outages, travel delays, damage to property and flooding from heavy rain. Find out how you can prepare for a storm.
Flooding
Flooding in Lewisham can result from heavy rainfall, blocked drains, burst pipes, or river overflow, leading to property damage, travel disruption, and safety risks. Find out how you can prepare for a flood.
Fires
Fires can happen anywhere and have devastating effects on people and property. Simple precautions like smoke alarms and safe use of appliances can help reduce the risk. Find out how you can make your home safe from fire.
Power outage
Power cuts can disrupt daily life by affecting heating, lighting, cooking, and communication. They may also impact essential services and businesses, so it’s important to have backup plans and know how to stay safe during an outage. Find out how to prepare for a power cut.
Loss of utilities (water, phone, broadband)
Interruptions to water supply can happen due to burst pipes, maintenance issues, or other disruptions, affecting homes and businesses. It’s important to know what to do if your water stops running and have basic supplies ready.
Phone and broadband outages can make it harder to contact family, friends, or emergency services. Having alternative ways to stay connected and knowing what to do during a phone outage can help reduce inconvenience and keep you safe.
Infectious diseases
Infectious disease outbreaks can spread quickly, affecting health, daily life, and essential services. Knowing how infections spread and following public health advice helps reduce risk and keep communities safe. Find out more about infectious disease outbreaks.
Pandemic
A pandemic is a fast-spreading epidemic that occurs when a new virus spreads rapidly, causing serious illness, deaths, and widespread disruption, including work absences. A pandemic could cause many people to have symptoms, so following public health advice is essential.
Cyber attacks
Cyber attacks are deliberate attempts to compromise digital systems, disrupt networks, or steal information. Staying alert and following cyber security advice helps protect your devices and data.
Terrorism
The UK faces an ongoing and evolving terrorism threat. Although the chance of being caught up in a terrorist incident remains low, the public should remain alert and prepared.
Contact
Emergency Planning
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