Get Flood Ready
Spring has arrived to B.C. communities. As the weather warms and our snow packs start to melt, it's time to get flood ready with Emergency Management BC.

Tip 1: Recognize the signs
Heavy snow melt may contribute to land slippage, mudslides and dangerous debris in creeks and waterways. It's not always pretty and it's definitely not worth the risk, so don't go down to the river bank or waterway to check out the rushing water. If you notice trees beginning to lean or bend near your home, or cracks developing in the hillside, consult an engineer or contact local authorities. And if you live near a creek or waterway, a change in the colour of the water or rapid change in the water level (especially a drop in water level) could indicate a problem upstream. Don't hesitate! Trust your instincts and contact your local authority immediately if you see or suspect something out of the ordinary.

Tip 2: Ready the emergency kit
Flood waters move fast, so get flood ready by having emergency supplies on hand in the event you need to evacuate your home. Assemble a grab-and-go kit and customize it to meet all your family's needs.

Tip 3: Protect your property
Check with insurance agents on flood insurance for your home and business and take a personal inventory of belongings. If you face a threatening flood situation, park family vehicles away from streams and waterways, move electrical appliances to upper floors, and make sure to anchor fuel supplies. Remove any toxic substances from the area to prevent pollution and acquire the right equipment if you are sandbagging. It takes two people about one hour to fill and place 100 sandbags, giving you a one-foot-by-20-foot wall. Make sure you have enough sand, burlap, plastic bags, shovels, strong helpers and time to prepare properly and watch this Sandbag Dike Tips video for helpful instructions.

Tip 4: Save it to your SmartPhone
Save it to your smartphone, tablet, computer or post it to your fridge. Flood ready also means knowing your local emergency contacts and where to get information or help quickly. Bookmark important sites on your mobile device and post emergency information in a central location where all family members have access. To get up-to-date information, monitor local radio and TV stations, connect with your local government, check the River Forecast Centre's website and follow along with Emergency Info BC and @EmergencyInfoBC for streamflow alerts and bulletins.