Protecting Your Family and Home Against Flooding
GENERAL INFORMATION
 Do you know enough about flood risk? There are many factors which may lead to flooding, including weather conditions during snowmelt in May and June, concentrated rainfalls, coastal high tides amplified by storms — learn if your home is in a flood risk area and keep current with reports and advisories. Information is available at the Provincial Emergency Program website. If you are at risk, there is much you can do now to prepare.
PREPARE FOR POSSIBLE FLOODING IN YOUR AREA
Flooding may occur in the area where you live, and although your home may not be immediately affected, you may be cut off from outside resources (phone, electricity, safe drinking water, road access) and even some members of your household.
You should have in place, at all times:
- An emergency plan that every household member knows. The plan should include information on how to shut off electrical power and natural gas sources, safe meeting places out of the flood-risk area, an out-of-province contact, plans for pets and livestock, and a neighbourhood safety plan that identifies people who may need extra help.
- An emergency supply kit containing food, water, necessary medications, flashlights and batteries, personal toiletries, identification for each family member, some cash and any important family documents. Be prepared to be on your own for at least 72 hours, possibly longer.
- A battery-powered or wind-up radio that allows you to access weather warnings and disaster instructions from local radio stations.
- A plan for protecting your home and the tools and items you may need to do so (wrenches for shutting off valves, plastic sheeting or sandbags).
- A full gas tank in your vehicle.
For more personal emergency plan information visit the Provincial Emergency Program website.
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