The Environment Agency is holding a number of coastal flood awareness events in Cornwall and Plymouth during March and April.

Flooding from the sea poses as serious a risk and one that is set to increase with climate change expected to cause wetter winters, sea level rise and more frequent and larger storm events.

Members of the public are invited to go along to any of the following events to find out what they can do to reduce the risk of coastal flooding: Padstow Harbour Wednesday 5 March 10am-4pm.

Truro Lemon Quay Saturday 8 March 10am-4pm.

Looe Seafront Tuesday 11 March 10am-4pm.

Lostwithiel Community Centre Wednesday 12 March 10am-2pm.

Plymouth Barbican Saturday 15 March 10am-4pm.

Wadebridge Town Hall Tuesday 18 March 10am-4pm.

Bude Parkside Centre Thursday 20 March 10am-3pm.

Fowey Town Hall Thursday 27 March 10am-2pm.

Kingsand The Institute Friday 28 March 10am-2pm.

Hayle Co-Op car park Wednesday 9 April 10am-4pm.

Penzance Wharfside car park Tuesday 15 April 10am-4pm.

Mevagissey St Andrews Church Hall Thursday 17 April 10am-2pm.

Falmouth Event Square Saturday 19 April 10am-4pm.

Plympton Sainsburys (Marshmills) car park Tuesday 22 April 10am-4pm.

Par Race Track Pavilion Friday 25th April 10am-3pm.

"There are around 14,700 properties in Devon and Cornwall at flood risk from the sea. It is vital people take positive action to protect themselves and their properties," said Lynsey Mulford for the Environment Agency.

"Finding out whether your home or business is in a flood risk area, understanding what you can do to reduce the risk and taking action in advance are the key steps in preparing for flooding and reducing the emotional and financial costs flooding can cause."

The Environment Agency can never stop flooding, but tries to reduce the likelihood of it happening and minimise the impact when it does. By working with local communities and encouraging them to prepare, it can manage flood risk more effectively.

"These events are a perfect chance for anyone concerned about coastal flooding to stop by and have a chat with us, about the steps they can take. Simple preparations can make a big difference, from installing flood protection products to preparing a flood action plan. A few minutes of your time could be time well spent," added Lynsey.

There will also be an opportunity for people to find out if they can register for free flood warnings via Floodline Warnings Direct, a service that provides flood warnings alerts via telephone, mobile, fax, SMS text, email and pager.

Anyone wanting to find out if they are eligible for a flood warning can also call Floodline on 0845 988 1188. Alternatively, advice can be found on the Agency's website www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood.