The Environment Agency (EA) has released a flash flood warning for Sidmouth over the Christmas period.
The town is one of 52 areas in the South West at risk.
Ottery St Mary, Beer, Budleigh Salterton, East Budleigh, Honiton and Colyford were also named as areas at risk.
As part of its emergency plan, Sidmouth Town Council will provide householders with sand bags and a voucher for sand that can be picked up from Wyevale’s Sidmouth garden centre.
An EA spokesman said: “Flash flooding can be very destructive and dangerous. It has the power to flood homes, carry away vehicles and damage buildings, walls and bridges. It can even move rocks and uproot trees.
“It is very hard to predict when and where instances might occur. As flash flooding is so rapid and intense, people may need to take independent action before the emergency services arrive. Although flash flooding is rare, it’s important to be prepared.”
Residents can call into council office at Woolcombe House between 9am and 1pm on weekdays to collect their free sandbags.
The office will be closed from 1pm Wednesday, December 23, for Christmas and will reopen on Monday, January 4.
Sidmouth town clerk Christopher Holland said that residents should contact East Devon District Council or Devon County Council if an emergency occurred over the festive break.
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