Over the past week many communities in Southern Ontario have seen heavy rainfalls, high water levels in surrounding lakes and rivers, and melting snow and ice jams, leading to flooded roads and homes. Brantford, Ontario, just one of the cities impacted by this week’s flooding, issued a state of emergency and evacuated 5000 residents.
Learn more about this week’s weather and floods:
- Flooding in Southwestern Ontario, pictures and video
- Flooding in Brantford, Ont., remains unpredictable and high risk, mayor says
- Highway 24, other major roads closed due to flooding
- 22 reports of flooding after Windsor breaks rainfall record
Floods can happen anywhere, at any time. Learning how to prepare before, during, and after a flood is essential for your family’s safety and the protection of your home or business.
As a member of your community it is important to stay informed about flood risks and the ways that you can prepare.
What can you do?
- Know your risks - talk to your local government, insurer, and neighbours.
- Have an emergency plan and a 72-hour emergency kit.
- Reach out to friends and neighbours to raise awareness and build community.
- Sign up for emergency notifications for your area. Be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
- Talk to your local government about incentives to install rain barrels and backwater valves.
Protect your home:
- Disconnect downspouts from the municipal storm system
- Clean your gutters
- Install rain barrels and cisterns - drain them often
- Grade your property so water flows away from your home
- Move valuable items upstairs
- Install covers for basement window wells
Protect yourself and your family:
- Do not drive in floodwaters - cars can be swept away in as little as 1 foot of water
- Stay away from flood waters and keep your children and pets safe
- Avoid food and drink that have come in contact with flood water
- Know how to connect with your family and where to go if your neighbourhood, school, or work floods
- If your home is flooded, contact your insurance company and a reputable flood restoration company as soon as possible
Take action:
Follow @PARTNERSFOR4ACTION on Twitter for flood-related news and updates.
For more information on floods and tips for how to prepare visit FloodSmart Canada. FloodSmart Canada provides people across the country with an easy to use information database full of flood-related content.