Volunteers are being sought to tackle the problem of flooding in Marine Parade, Dawlish.
Particularly needed are observers to help spread the word when the threat is rising, and flood wardens to distribute sand bags before the waves breach the sea wall.
Flooding is most likely to happen when strong easterly winds coincide with high tides and rain.
It has occurred on at least two occasions in the past two years and the possible effects of climate change and rising sea levels have set the alarm bells ringing.
It is hoped that new volunteers will make themselves known at an open meeting scheduled to take place at the Marine Tavern on Monday evening.
The event will also be used to launch a new flood plan for the area.
Mayor Cllr Wally Protheroe said Dawlish Town Council had been working with Teignbridge Council and the Environment Agency to draw up a contingency plan but it was also down to individuals to shoulder their share of the burden.
'Residents need to take measures so they are not vulnerable and the launch of the flood plan is designed to help them achieve this,' he said.
Teignbridge Council has indicated it is willing to listen to ideas on how to improve flood defences in Marine Parade and that it looks forward to 'working in partnership to resolve any issues'.
The meeting is due to start at 6pm.